Scaramouche · Chapter
VIII: The Spadassinicides explained
André-Louis Moreau, as deputy-suppléant for the slain Lagron, delivers a provocative inaugural speech in the National Assembly, directly challenging the Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr and the Privileged party.
What happens
André-Louis Moreau, as deputy-suppléant for the slain Lagron, delivers a provocative inaugural speech in the National Assembly, directly challenging the Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr and the Privileged party. He is challenged to a duel by M. de Chabrillane, but the next day appears alone, announcing that Chabrillane will be permanently absent, implying he has killed him.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Justice
André-Louis's speech directly challenges the Marquis and the Privileged party, seeking justice for Lagron's murder.
Theatre and Performance
André-Louis's theatrical delivery, snuffbox gesture, and dramatic announcement of Chabrillane's absence highlight his performative nature.
Social Class and Revolution
The conflict between the Third Estate and the Privileged party is central, with André-Louis representing the revolutionary side.
Characters to notice
- André-Louis Moreau
Returns to the National Assembly as deputy-suppléant for Lagron, delivers a provocative speech, and duels and kills Chabrillane.
- Marquis de La Tour d'Azyr
Present in the Assembly, recognizes André-Louis with unease, recalling he spared his life at Gavrillac.
- M. de Chabrillane
Challenges André-Louis to a duel after the speech; is killed by André-Louis.
- Le Chapelier
Encourages André-Louis with a grin during his speech; later receives snuff from him.
- Kersain
A Breton deputy who smiles approvingly at André-Louis's speech.
- Mirabeau
Observes André-Louis with wonder during the speech.
- Robespierre
Watches André-Louis attentively through a spyglass, with a tiger-cat smile.
- Lagron
The deceased deputy whose place André-Louis fills; his murder is referenced.
Key passages
“I come before you as a deputy-suppléant to fill the place of one who was murdered some three weeks ago.”
André-Louis announces he is replacing a deputy who was killed.
Opening statement in the Assembly, directly accusing the Privileged party.
“Tomorrow morning, in the Bois. Perhaps you will bring a friend.”
André-Louis accepts Chabrillane's duel challenge for the next morning.
Shows his calm and mocking demeanor in the face of danger.
“I bring you also the excuses of M. de Chabrillane. He, unfortunately, will be permanently absent from this Assembly in future.”
André-Louis announces that Chabrillane is dead and will not return.
Dramatic conclusion to the duel, confirming André-Louis's victory.