Au Bonheur des Dames

The narrative centers on widower Octave Mouret, who seeks to captivate his female clientele through a sensory overload of shopping experiences. By skillfully presenting a diverse array of products and creating enticing displays, he manipulates their desires and encourages them to indulge in consumerism. The book explores themes of commerce, desire, and the evolving role of women in society during the rise of department stores.