This literary criticism examines the representation of Paris in 19th century French fiction, tracing the city's evolution from mythical and romanticized depictions to its portrayal as a symbol of modernity and speed. Drawing on the observation that Paris was the 'heroine of the great French novel,' the work analyzes how French writers transformed the capital into a literary landscape, exploring themes from the myth of Babylon to the cult of speed. Through careful examination of major works, it reveals how Paris became not just a setting but a character in its own right, reflecting changing cultural attitudes and the transformation of French society during this pivotal century.