One of the best works of the well-known French writer Romain Rolland (1866–1944) is filled with passionate love for life in all its manifestations. The never-sad clown and prankster Colas Breugnon possesses a rare gift—he knows how to enjoy everything he does, taking the same delight in work, wine, food, and sensual pleasures. A sense of humor and a philosophical attitude to life help Colas Breugnon endure all misfortunes and hardships.
In the novella «Colas Breugnon», the life of a small French town of Clamecy and its inhabitants is shown from the 16th to the early 17th centuries. Written in the manner of folklore stylization with a juicy language, the book recreates the distinctive everyday life of medieval Burgundy. The author created a wonderful image of Colas Breugnon—a bearer of folk wisdom, a cheerful soul passionately in love with life.