Narrator

Narrator is a young boy who recounts his autobiography in this book. He tells the story of his youth, beginning with his time spent at his great-aunt Leonie's house in Combray. He recounts his affection for his mother and his avid reading. His descriptions of his family show an acute observation inherent in his activities. Upon his return to Paris, he reminisces about his encounters with Gilberte Swann and their friendship, which blossomed into his love for her. The narrator details his friendship with the Swanns, his first encounter with Berma, and his introduction to Bergotte. The romance dies when he sees Gilberte walking with another young man. Then, he travels to Balbec for the summer with his grandmother where his grandmother's friend, Mme. de Villeparisis introduces the narrator to her nephew, Robert de Saint-Loup, who becomes the narrator's good friend. He also meets the painter, Elstir, who...