# V explained — The Monster

> Chapter companion for The Monster by Edgar Saltus.

## What happens

Verplank, Silverstairs, and de Fresnoy discuss the etiquette of dueling in response to Barouffski's insult. De Fresnoy agrees to act as a second and writes a formal challenge to Barouffski. Verplank reflects on his past with Leilah and glimpses her in a passing motor, but she disappears into the fog.

## Themes in this chapter

### Violence and Dueling

The chapter revolves around the planning and justification of a duel as a means to settle an insult, reflecting the code of honor among the aristocracy.

### Scandal and Reputation

Verplank's past with Leilah and the divorce scandal underpin the conflict, with reputation at stake in the duel.

## Character check-ins

### M. Verplank

Seeks advice on dueling after Barouffski's insult; reveals his past with Leilah and his ignorance of the divorce's cause.

### Lord Silverstairs

Acts as a second for Verplank; provides commentary on American divorce laws and arranges a meeting with Tempest.

### Baron de Fresnoy

Expert in dueling etiquette; agrees to be Verplank's second and writes the formal challenge to Barouffski.

### Leilah Verplank

Glimpsed by Verplank in a passing motor, but she disappears before he can confront her.

### Count Kasimiérz Barouffski

The target of the duel challenge; his insult to Verplank triggers the events of the chapter.

## Key lines

> To look impertinently at a man constitutes an attack on his self esteem, which in itself is an integral part of his moral wealth.

A disrespectful glance is an assault on a man's dignity and moral worth.

_De Fresnoy justifies dueling as a response to perceived insults._

> On the boards, fencing is an exercise, it is an amusement. On the field, it is another man's blood—or yours.

Fencing in practice is sport, but in a duel it becomes deadly serious.

_De Fresnoy contrasts training with real combat._

> In the States they give you a divorce for a Yes or a No.

In America, divorces are granted for trivial reasons.

_Silverstairs comments on the ease of American divorce._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monster_se/chapters/v
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monster_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monster_se/chapters