La joie de vivre

At the end of the 19th century, an orphan is taken in by her aunt and uncle in Normandy. She is not only accepted out of kindness but also because she possesses a substantial inheritance held in trust. As she grows up, she develops feelings for her cousin, a man who lacks ambition and direction, and later assists him financially in his time of need. After her aunt's death, she assumes responsibility for managing the household and supports the family financially. Her intended marriage to her cousin falls through when a rival enters the picture. The story follows a selfless woman who, despite facing disappointments and a difficult life, refuses to let these hardships rob her of joy.