The Counterfeiters · Chapter
XIX: Boris explained
Boris, under the influence of Ghéridanisol and George, is driven to suicide during class.
What happens
Boris, under the influence of Ghéridanisol and George, is driven to suicide during class. He shoots himself in a recess by the master's desk, while La Pérouse watches helplessly. The other boys, including Philippe and young Passavant, are complicit or horrified. After the shot, George hides the pistol and returns it to La Pérouse's room, while Ghéridanisol feigns innocence. The tragedy shocks everyone, and George, overwhelmed, confesses to his mother Pauline.
Themes in this chapter
Morality and Corruption
The chapter starkly illustrates the corruption of youth through Ghéridanisol's manipulation and the complicity of the other boys, leading to Boris's suicide.
Youth and Education
The classroom setting and the failure of the educational system to protect Boris highlight the dangers and pressures faced by young people.
Family and Paternity
La Pérouse's helplessness as a grandfather and Pauline's role as a mother underscore the family's inability to prevent the tragedy.
Characters to notice
- Little Boris
Boris is the central figure of the chapter, who commits suicide in the classroom under the coercion of Ghéridanisol and George.
- Ghéridanisol
Ghéridanisol orchestrates the suicide, setting a time limit and passing notes; he later feigns innocence and is believed by the adults.
- George Molinier
George participates in the cruel game, hides the pistol after the suicide, and later feels horror and confesses to his mother.
- Phiphi
Philippe (Phiphi) is uneasy and tries to warn Boris by passing a note, then leaves the room in distress before the shot.
- Monsieur de La Pérouse
La Pérouse is the teacher and Boris's grandfather; he witnesses the suicide helplessly, frozen and trembling.
- Pauline
Pauline is George's mother, who receives his confession and feels gratitude that the tragedy brought her son back to her.
Key passages
“Old boy, you’ve only got a quarter of an hour more.”
Ghéridanisol reminds Boris that only fifteen minutes remain before the planned suicide.
This line underscores the psychological pressure and countdown to Boris's death.
“Are you quite sure the pistol isn’t loaded?”
Philippe asks Ghéridanisol whether the pistol is actually loaded, expressing his doubt and anxiety.
Philippe's note reveals his moral conflict and foreshadows the tragic outcome.
“Master Boris, kindly return at once to your. …”
La Pérouse orders Boris to return to his seat, but stops mid-sentence upon recognizing the pistol.
This incomplete command highlights La Pérouse's sudden realization and helplessness.