French writer Francois Mauriac is one of the most prominent figures in the literature of the 20th century. A Nobel Prize winner, he created his own special, Mauriacian, type of novel. Continuing the tradition established by O. de Balzac and E. Zola, Mauriac explores the subtlest nuances of human psychology. In the center of the narrative of most of his works are relationships within the family. Life constantly tests Mauriac's heroes for strength, and few of them withstand these tests with honor. “The Pharisee” is a novel about the delusions and epiphany of the powerful and cruel Madame Brigitte Pian. She treacherously interferes in the destinies of the people around her, hiding behind good intentions. Only after repenting does she understand that the main thing in life is love, a blessed gift that saves the soul.