The Immortal

Alphonse Daudet

'The Immortal' is a historical fiction novel by Alphonse Daudet. Set in19th century France, the story centers on the power of the Académie Française, a real-life institution revered for its literary and linguistic expertise. Alphonse Daudet's 'The Immortal' peels back the layers of this elite organization, revealing its politics, cronyism, and conservatism. At the heart of the novel is Léonard Astier-Réhu, a historian and archivist who clings to his membership in the Académie as a symbol of his professional worth. As he waits for a senior member to pass away, he hopes to be elevated to a higher position within the organization. His protégé, the ambitious Vicomte de Freydet, also eagerly anticipates the next vacancy, hoping to join the ranks of this influential organization.