This dissertation is set in the field of nineteenth-century French romance literature. This century is characterized by numerous social changes, particularly in the expression of love. Sentimental relationships are now based on selfish and pecuniary interests, sometimes, or consciously, on the quest for social advancement. Romantic characters, embodying the spirit of the century, project themselves into sentimental relationships, subverting all social, moral and human values. Only the level of wealth - dowry values, socio-political projection and material wealth - is the cult reference point. As morals wither, marriage ethics wither and love withers away, we need to give a warning about the residue. This is the quest of this study, which seeks to portray the practice of love and its various derivatives through the analysis of La Chartreuse de Parme (Stendhal), La Curée (Emile Zola) and Indiana (George Sand). It is part of a broader approach to life lessons - especially for young people in search of an archetype.