# From Olivier to Bernard explained — The Counterfeiters

> Chapter companion for The Counterfeiters by André Gide.

## What happens

Bernard and Edouard discuss Bernard's plan to work at the Vedel-Azaïs boarding school, while Olivier writes to Bernard from Corsica, detailing his travels with Robert de Passavant and his role as editor of a new review, The Vanguard. Edouard is hurt by Olivier's letter, which seems to forget him, and Bernard proposes to help with Boris and earn his keep at the school.

## Themes in this chapter

### Counterfeiting and Appearance

Olivier's letter is described as written for show and inspired by pique, with crossed-out sincere lines, highlighting the theme of appearance versus reality.

### Youth and Education

Bernard proposes to work as an under-master at the Vedel school, and Olivier's new role as editor reflects youthful ambition and education.

## Character check-ins

### Bernard Profitendieu

Proposes to work at the Vedel-Azaïs school to earn his living and be near Boris; feels curiosity about Armand and Sarah Vedel.

### Edouard

Discusses Bernard's plan, feels humiliated by Bernard's eloquence, and is hurt by Olivier's letter which seems to forget him.

### Olivier Molinier

Writes to Bernard from Corsica, describing his travels with Passavant and his new role as editor of The Vanguard.

### Robert de Passavant

Accompanies Olivier in Corsica, finances the review The Vanguard, and is described as a delightful and generous companion.

## Key lines

> I must first tell you that I have passed my bachot all right. But that's of no importance. A unique opportunity came in my way of travelling for a bit. I was still hesitating; but after reading your letter, I jumped at it.

Olivier informs Bernard he passed his baccalaureate but considers it trivial; he decided to travel after reading Bernard's letter.

_Olivier's letter reveals his prioritization of adventure over academic achievement._

> You must know that the writer of this letter is no less a person than the editor-in-chief of the new review, The Vanguard.

Olivier announces his new role as editor-in-chief of the literary review The Vanguard.

_This marks Olivier's entry into the literary world under Passavant's patronage._

> Tell Uncle E. that I think of him constantly; that I cannot forgive him for having chucked me and that my heart has been mortally wounded.

Olivier's crossed-out postscript expresses his hurt and longing for Edouard.

_These crossed-out lines reveal Olivier's true feelings, contrasting with the letter's superficial tone._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_counterfeiters_se/chapters/vi-from-olivier-to-bernard
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_counterfeiters_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_counterfeiters_se/chapters