# CHAPTER LXXIII explained — The Red and the Black

> Chapter companion for The Red and the Black by Stendhal.

## What happens

Julien, in prison, is tormented by an intrusive priest seeking to confess him and create a scandal. He is visited by Madame de Rênal, who begs him to appeal his death sentence. Their emotional reunion reveals her deep love and remorse over the letter that led to his condemnation. Julien agrees to appeal, but only if she promises not to harm herself. He learns that the letter was drafted by her confessor, and they share a profound moment of forgiveness and love.

## Themes in this chapter

### Religion as Institution

The intrusive priest's behavior highlights the institutional church's exploitation of prisoners for reputation, contrasting with Madame de Rênal's genuine faith.

### Love as Power Struggle

Julien and Madame de Rênal's reunion is marked by emotional manipulation and negotiation over his appeal, reflecting their complex power dynamics.

### Fate and Free Will

Julien's decision to appeal or accept death is a central conflict, weighing his love for Madame de Rênal against his resignation to fate.

## Character check-ins

### Julien Sorel

In prison, tormented by the intrusive priest and overwhelmed by Madame de Rênal's visit, he agrees to appeal his sentence.

### Madame de Rênal

Visits Julien in prison, begs him to appeal, reveals her enduring love and remorse, and swears to see him daily.

### Mathilde de la Mole

Mentioned as Julien's wife but not his mistress; her absence is noted in the chapter.

## Key lines

> The impudent fellow,” thought Julien. At this moment he actually heard a dull buzz. It was the responses of the people to the litanies.

Julien is irritated by the priest's theatrics and hears the crowd's murmurs in response to the prayers.

_Julien's anger at the priest's self-promotion is palpable._

> I take back my words,” exclaimed Julien, getting up, “I shall not appeal from my death sentence, if you try, either by poison, knife, pistol, charcoal, or any other means whatsoever, to put an end to your life, or make any attempt upon it.”

Julien threatens to withdraw his appeal if Madame de Rênal attempts suicide, showing his love and control.

_This moment reveals Julien's desperation and his use of love as a bargaining chip._

> The very minute I see you all my duties disappear. I have nothing but love for you, dear, or rather, the word love is too weak.

Madame de Rênal confesses that her love for Julien overrides all her moral and religious duties.

_Her devotion is both passionate and troubling, showing the power of love over faith._

## Links

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