Honore De Balzac

The Atheist's Mass Honore De Balzac

The Athiest's Mass, Honore de Balzac's classic story, places us in the world of early 19th century medicine and surgery, discussing how one practitioner of such has devised his very own mass.

Published in the 1830s, at a time when medical advancements were proceeding apace, Balzac's fictional tale places us in a surgery where the operations fueling scientific progress occurred. The physician Bianchon is ostensibly an atheist, in keeping with the community of like-minded doctors and surgeons.

However, Bianchon convenes a secret mass in his surgery once a week. The mystery surrounding this event comprises the plot, which to some extent immerses the reader in the universe of the 19th century city - one of great poverty and hardship for the great majority of people.

Noteworthy for its respectful treatment of both science and religion, this book by Balzac is of its time. However offers a good glimpse at where the two contrasting disciplines stood, while giving us an insightful introduction to the reflective mind of the author who - rather than preach - allows the reader to reach his own conclusions.