A collection of short stories by the French author Honoré de Balzac. First published in 1832.  70 stories that satirize various aspects of French society during the 16th century.  Each story is a humorous and often bawdy tale, filled with witty dialogues and absurd situations. Balzac uses these stories to poke fun at the clergy, nobility, and bourgeoisie, highlighting their vices, hypocrisies, and follies.

The characters range from peasants and soldiers to kings and queens, and cover a wide range of themes including love, marriage, politics, and religion. The writing style is lively and entertaining, making the stories engaging and enjoyable to read.

Despite their comedic nature, the stories in "Droll Stories" also provide a social commentary on the corruption and moral decay of French society. Humor as a tool to expose the flaws and weaknesses of the characters, offering a satirical critique of the times.

"Droll Stories" is considered one of Balzac's most popular works, showcasing his talents as a storyteller and his ability to blend humor with social criticism. The book reflects the author's keen observation of human nature and his ability to capture the complexities of society in a humorous and entertaining way.