- Taken by her operetta part, Madame de St. Chalumeau is shouting so loud that she does not notice the bellowing of her child, plate 13 from Les Comédiens De Société 1858

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph titled, *Taken by her operetta part, Madame de St. Chalumeau is shouting so loud that she does not notice the bellowing of her child*, as part of his series *Les Comédiens De Société.* Daumier made these works during a time of significant social change in France. Here he offers a satirical commentary on the bourgeoisie, and their aspirations. It questions the roles and expectations placed on women of the time. In this image, Madame de St. Chalumeau is completely absorbed in her operatic role, practicing with dramatic flair, oblivious to the chaos around her. Her child lies in distress, having clearly fallen. Daumier uses the scene to critique the mother's self-absorbed ambition, which contrasts sharply with her maternal duties. It emphasizes the tension between a woman's personal aspirations and her social obligations. The image resonates with humor, while highlighting a deeper commentary on societal values and gender roles.