<p>In 'Maitre Cornelius,' Honoré de Balzac delves into the murky depths of the human soul, entwining historical accuracy with gothic elements to explore themes of greed, power, and morality. Situated within the rich tapestry of the Renaissance era, Balzac's masterful storytelling brings to life a tale of treachery and avarice orbiting around the enigmatic figure of Cornelius, the king's treasurer. As part of the La Comédie Humaine, the novella sh...