The Mysteries of Udolpho · Chapter
Chapter XXXIX explained
Emily meets Valancourt in the library, where he confesses his debts and moral failings.
What happens
Emily meets Valancourt in the library, where he confesses his debts and moral failings. Despite her lingering love, she resolves to break their connection forever, though she agrees to see him once more. The Count's counsel and memories of her father's teachings strengthen her resolve, but she spends a sleepless night torn between affection and reason.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Separation
The central conflict of the chapter: Emily and Valancourt's painful interview and their decision to part.
Virtue and Self-Command
Emily struggles to maintain her resolution and recalls her father's precepts on self-command.
Characters to notice
- Emily St. Aubert
Struggles with her emotions during the meeting with Valancourt, ultimately resolves to part but agrees to a second interview.
- Valancourt
Confesses his debts and moral decline, expresses remorse, and pleads for Emily's love and another meeting.
- Count De Villefort
Arranges the meeting, advises Emily against trusting Valancourt's repentance, and is seen as an obstacle by Valancourt.
Key passages
“I have solicited to see you this evening, that I might, at least, be spared the further torture of suspense, which your altered manner had occasioned me, and which the hints I have just received from the Count have in part explained.”
Valancourt asks to meet Emily to end his uncertainty about her changed behavior, which the Count's hints have partly clarified.
Valancourt expresses his distress and seeks clarity from Emily.
“We must part, I now see you for the last time.”
Emily declares that they must separate forever.
Emily forces herself to end the relationship despite her feelings.
“I am ruined—irreparably ruined—I am involved in debts, which I can never discharge!”
Valancourt admits he is hopelessly in debt and cannot recover.
Valancourt confesses the full extent of his financial ruin.