The Red and the Black · Chapter
Chapter VI. Ennui explained
Julien Sorel, now tutor to the de Rênal children, astounds the household by reciting the entire New Testament from memory.
What happens
Julien Sorel, now tutor to the de Rênal children, astounds the household by reciting the entire New Testament from memory. His fame spreads through Verrières, and M. de Rênal offers him a two-year contract, which Julien refuses. Julien's bold act of kissing Madame de Rênal's hand marks the beginning of his complex relationship with her, while he navigates the social dynamics of the household.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Social Mobility
Julien's performance of piety and his strategic refusal of the contract highlight the hypocrisy inherent in social climbing.
Class and Aristocratic Prejudice
The de Rênal's treatment of Julien as a 'little peasant' and the emphasis on proper attire reflect class prejudices.
Love as Power Struggle
The hand-kiss is an act of boldness and a power play, initiating a complex dynamic between Julien and Madame de Rênal.
Characters to notice
- Julien Sorel
Demonstrates his prodigious memory and ambition, refuses the engagement contract, and boldly kisses Madame de Rênal's hand.
- Madame de Rênal
Conceals her true feelings about Julien from her husband, feels a mix of shock and fascination after the hand-kiss.
- M. de Rênal
Proud of Julien's display, offers him a contract, and insists on proper attire and dignity.
- M. Valenod
Visits during Julien's recitation, contributing to the scene's impact.
- M. de Maugiron
Sub-prefect who witnesses Julien's recitation, adding to the public spectacle.
Key passages
“No, Monsieur, if you wished to dismiss me, I should have to go. An engagement which binds me without involving you in any obligation is not an equal one and I refuse it.”
Julien declines the two-year contract, pointing out that it would be unfair since it only obligates him, not M. de Rênal.
Julien's strategic refusal demonstrates his pride and sense of fairness, which also serves to elevate his standing.
“I am here, gentlemen, to teach you Latin. You know what it means to recite a lesson. Here is the Holy Bible... I shall often make you recite your lesson, but do you make me now recite mine.”
Julien introduces himself to the children, offering to demonstrate his knowledge by reciting from the Bible as a sample of his teaching method.
Julien's dramatic recitation is a calculated performance to impress the family and secure his position.