Gargantua und Pantagruel (1532)

Gargantua And Pantagruel, spread across 5 books, depicts the lives of two giants seeking true knowledge of themselves, and of the world. They encounter and befriend memorable acquaintances, fight wars and journey to mystical lands. It's hilariously deranged and absurd, but yet very serious and encompassing of life and of society itself in some aspects. This makes Gargantua and Pantagruel relatable till today, despite its age.

There's allusions to Greek myths, laws, medical definitions, to his multilingual talents employed in punning and in the naming of the characters, and also to the philosophers and writers of his time. In addition, coarse, bawdy jokes and satire are woven into these tales, which may be distasteful for those who prefer their reading to be more refined. These range from bodily excrescences, laws, his intense dislike for some of the ruling Catholic authorities, superstition, the sexual organs and the upper classes, to name a few.

This was a painfully hefty read, owing to the medieval origins of the books - but still hugely enjoyable to the end. ( )

Tout Ce Qui Existe De Ses Oeuvres: Gargantua Pantagruel Pantagrueline Prognostication Almanachs Schiomacie Lettres Opuscules Pieces Attribuees A Rabelais.par Louis Moland ( )

M.2.2

AG-4

This is a sweeping epic that is so entertaining and unpredictable that it will carry you along for the ride at a brisk pace. Although it is not perfect, and there are changes of pace and interest throughout, the overall story is very fulfilling and allows one to truly get into the wonder and aspects of the story. Personally, I preferred the 1st, 2nd, and 4th book- but the others still have their charms and good points as well.

4.25 stars- well worth the read for anyone interested in classics, epics, grand comedies, and French literature! ( )