The Confession of a Child of The Century (1836) by Alfred de Musset is the story of Octave, a young man of means, "taken with the malady of the age" -- a profound disillusionment with the world and humanity -- after his mistress betrays his trust. The single incident of infidelity serves as a catalyst that shapes the cynical mindest, following him for the greater part of his life, and imbuing with tragedy his subsequent relationships.