The Elixir of Life

"The Elixir of Life" by Honore de Balzac is a philosophical short story written in the early 19th century. The narrative intertwines themes of life, death, and the moral dilemmas associated with immortality. Set against the backdrop of Ferrara, Italy, in the 16th century, the explores the consequences of seeking eternal life and the ethical ramifications of one’s actions in relation to family and society.