Mauprat · Chapter
XVIII explained
The Trappist seeks an interview with Bernard through the abbé, claiming he must obtain Bernard's forgiveness before his public expiation.
What happens
The Trappist seeks an interview with Bernard through the abbé, claiming he must obtain Bernard's forgiveness before his public expiation. Bernard is disgusted by what he perceives as hypocrisy. Meanwhile, Edmée's father pressures her to marry Bernard, but she remains reserved, promising to marry him but insisting on more time. Bernard declares his undying devotion, and the abbé recounts his encounter with the Trappist at the spring of Fougeres.
Themes in this chapter
Religion and Hypocrisy
The Trappist's dramatic penitence is viewed by Bernard as deceit and cowardice, highlighting the tension between genuine faith and performative piety.
Love and Fidelity
Bernard's unwavering devotion to Edmée is contrasted with her cautious reserve, exploring the complexities of love and commitment.
Family and Heredity
Hubert's concern for family honor and the Mauprat legacy drives the pressure on Edmée to marry Bernard.
Characters to notice
- The Trappist
Seeks Bernard's forgiveness and a meeting, claiming he must make public expiation for his crimes.
- Abbé Aubert
Acts as intermediary between the Trappist and Bernard; recounts his meeting with the Trappist at the spring.
- Bernard Mauprat
Hides and listens to the Trappist's request; later declares his love and devotion to Edmée despite her reserve.
- Edmée de Mauprat
Resists pressure to marry Bernard immediately, but reaffirms her promise to marry him.
- Hubert de Mauprat
Urges Edmée to marry Bernard, concerned about their family's reputation and his own declining health.
Key passages
“I cannot act in this matter without the consent of a young man who will soon be the last of the Mauprats; for the chevalier has not many days to wait before he will receive the heavenly reward due to his virtues; and as for myself, I cannot avoid the punishment I am about to seek, except by falling back into the endless night of the cloister.”
The Trappist explains that he needs Bernard's permission to proceed, as Hubert is near death and Bernard will be the last Mauprat; he himself can only escape punishment by returning to the monastery.
The Trappist manipulates the situation by invoking family duty and his own penitential journey.
“I will lie at her door like a faithful dog and tear to pieces the first man who dares to present himself otherwise than on his knees; and if some day an honest man, more fortunate than myself, shows himself worthy of her love, far from opposing him, I will entrust to him the dear and sacred task of protecting and vindicating her.”
Bernard vows to guard Edmée fiercely but selflessly, promising to step aside if a worthier man wins her love.
Bernard's declaration reveals his deep devotion and willingness to sacrifice his own happiness for Edmée's.