Shirley · Chapter
Endnotes explained
This section contains the original French phrases and translations used throughout the novel, providing insight into the characters' multilingual expressions and cultural references.
What happens
This section contains the original French phrases and translations used throughout the novel, providing insight into the characters' multilingual expressions and cultural references.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Inequality
French phrases like 'oafish peasants' and comments on servants underscore class tensions.
Friendship and Female Solidarity
Affectionate French terms between characters suggest bonds, though also ironic dismissals of friends appear.
Characters to notice
- Robert Moore
Referenced in French dialogue regarding friends and family.
- Mr. Yorke
Addressed in French exchange about friends and peasants.
- Hortense Gérard
Mentioned in French notes about family and servants.
- Sarah
Referenced as an insolent English maid in French commentary.
- Caroline Helstone
Addressed in affectionate French terms like 'my sweet' and 'my dear'.
- Shirley Keeldar
Referenced in French notes about poetry and character.
Key passages
“To hell with it!”
An exclamation of frustration or dismissal.
French: 'Au diable!'
“Awkward customer!”
A difficult person to deal with.
French: 'Pénible client!'
“The voyage of life is but begun for me...”
A poetic reflection on youth and the journey ahead.
From André Chénier's 'The Young Captive,' quoted in French.