Scaramouche · Chapter
IV: Interlude explained
André-Louis continues his life in Paris, running a successful fencing academy and observing the political turmoil of the French Revolution.
What happens
André-Louis continues his life in Paris, running a successful fencing academy and observing the political turmoil of the French Revolution. He learns that his godfather, M. de Kercadiou, has moved to Meudon, and after a delay, visits him. The chapter also depicts a theatrical incident at the Comédie Française where Danton defiantly remains covered, and notes the growing unrest in Paris, including the march to Versailles and the King's relocation to the Tuileries.
Themes in this chapter
Theatre and Performance
The chapter centers on a theatrical event at the Comédie Française, where political tensions play out on stage and in the audience, highlighting the performative nature of revolution.
Social Class and Revolution
The unrest in Paris, the resistance of Privilege, and the emigration of nobles illustrate the class conflicts driving the Revolution.
Cowardice and Courage
Danton's defiant act of remaining covered amid the uproar contrasts with the retreat of other republicans, showcasing courage in the face of mob pressure.
Characters to notice
- André-Louis Moreau
Busy with his fencing academy, contemplates expanding; learns of his godfather's move to Meudon and eventually visits.
- Le Chapelier
Visits André-Louis to inform him of M. de Kercadiou's arrival at Meudon and later brings news of Gavrillac.
- M. de Kercadiou
Has moved to Meudon, occupying his brother's villa; is uneasy with the luxurious surroundings and misses his agrarian life.
- Aline de Kercadiou
Delighted by the proximity to Paris and the heart of events; her presence helps her uncle tolerate the move.
- Danton
Appears at the Comédie Française, defiantly remaining covered during a performance, displaying heroic and grotesque demeanor.
- Étienne de Kercadiou
Emigrated with M. d'Artois; his vacant villa at Meudon is occupied by his brother.
Key passages
“Firm as the hat of Servandony!”
As steadfast as Servandony's hat.
Danton's defiant retort to the crowd demanding he remove his hat, referencing a famous architectural feature.
“The only sane nobles appeared to him to be those who had crossed the frontier”
André-Louis thought the only sensible nobles were those who had emigrated.
Reflects André-Louis's view on the nobility's self-destructive resistance.