Fantômas · Chapter
The Court of Assize explained
The trial of Gurn for the murder of Lord Beltham takes place in a packed courtroom.
What happens
The trial of Gurn for the murder of Lord Beltham takes place in a packed courtroom. Lady Beltham gives dramatic testimony, expressing forgiveness for the prisoner, while the concierge Mme. Doulenques fails to definitively identify her as Gurn's mysterious visitor. The chapter ends with the court calling Inspector Juve as the next witness.
Themes in this chapter
Crime and Justice
The entire chapter revolves around the trial of Gurn for murder, examining courtroom procedure, witness testimony, and the pursuit of justice.
Theatricality and Performance
Lady Beltham's testimony is described as a performance, with the actor Valgrand in the audience analyzing Gurn as a type, and a woman critic calling Lady Beltham a 'barnstormer'.
Gender and Power
Lady Beltham's manipulation of the court through her appearance, voice, and emotional appeal highlights gender dynamics in the courtroom.
Characters to notice
- M. Gurn
The prisoner on trial for murder, sits impassive in the dock, shows visible emotion during Lady Beltham's testimony.
- Lady Beltham
Key witness, widow of the victim, gives emotional testimony and publicly forgives Gurn.
- Inspector Juve
Called as the next witness at the end of the chapter.
- Maître Barberoux
Gurn's eminent counsel, assisted by a galaxy of juniors including Roger de Seras.
- Roger de Seras
Junior barrister assisting Maître Barberoux in Gurn's defense.
- Valgrand
The actor present in the audience, enthusiastically commenting on Gurn as 'The Assassin' type.
- Mme. Doulenques
Concierge called as witness, unable to definitively identify Lady Beltham as Gurn's lady visitor.
Key passages
“Call Lady Beltham!”
The court usher summons Lady Beltham to testify.
Opening line of the chapter, setting the scene for her dramatic testimony.
“I ought to forgive him, bow beneath the burden that is laid upon my soul: and I do forgive him!”
Lady Beltham declares she forgives Gurn for murdering her husband.
Key moment of testimony, showing her public stance of Christian forgiveness.
“That man is not an assassin: he is The Assassin—the Type!”
Valgrand the actor proclaims Gurn embodies the archetype of a murderer.
Reflects the theatrical and symbolic interpretation of Gurn by the audience.