The Red and the Black · Chapter
Chapter XXXIV. The Hôtel De La Mole explained
Julien Sorel, now secretary to the Marquis de la Mole, finds himself in the aristocratic salon of the Hôtel de la Mole, where he is both an outsider and an object of curiosity.
What happens
Julien Sorel, now secretary to the Marquis de la Mole, finds himself in the aristocratic salon of the Hôtel de la Mole, where he is both an outsider and an object of curiosity. He observes the stifling etiquette and boredom of high society, noting the toadies and their servile behavior. He becomes increasingly disillusioned with the empty conversations and the contempt shown by the nobles. Mathilde de la Mole, intrigued by his difference, begins to show interest in him, asking him questions and including him in her circle. Julien, feeling out of place, expresses his discomfort to Abbé Pirard, who reminds him of the honor of dining with the marquis. The chapter highlights the contrast between Julien's genuine nature and the artificiality of the aristocratic world.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Aristocratic Prejudice
The salon's inhabitants display contempt for those not of noble birth, and Julien's presence as a commoner is met with curiosity and condescension.
Hypocrisy and Social Mobility
The toadies' servile behavior and the nobles' empty politeness highlight the hypocrisy of the aristocratic world, while Julien's position as secretary represents a form of social mobility.
Self-Identity and Authenticity
Julien struggles to maintain his authenticity in a world of artificiality, feeling bored and out of place, while Mathilde begins to appreciate his difference.
Characters to notice
- Julien Sorel
Feels alienated and bored in the aristocratic salon, observes the hypocrisy and servility of the guests, and is uncomfortable with the honor of dining with the marquis.
- Mathilde de la Mole
Shows initial interest in Julien, listens to his conversation with the abbé, and begins to include him in her social circle, mocking the bores.
- Marquis de la Mole
Defends his decision to keep Julien, values resistance, and is charming to his wife while maintaining the household's social codes.
- Abbé Pirard
Works with Julien in the library, is scandalized by Julien's request to dine elsewhere, and appreciates the honor of dining with a great lord.
- Madame de la Mole
Suggests sending Julien away on business days, rewards the baron Le Bourguignon with a prefectship, and embodies the aristocratic boredom.
Key passages
“What is he doing here? Will he like it there? Will he try to please?— Ronsard .”
Julien's presence in the aristocratic salon raises questions about his intentions and whether he will adapt to its social norms.
The epigraph sets the tone for Julien's entry into a foreign social world.
“One can only lean on what resists . The only thing against this man is his unknown face, apart from that he is a deaf mute.”
The marquis defends keeping Julien, arguing that his resistance is valuable and his only drawback is his obscurity.
The marquis sees Julien's independence as an asset, contrasting with the servile toadies.
“The slightest live idea appeared a crudity.”
Any original or lively thought was considered vulgar in the salon's stifling atmosphere.
Highlights the intellectual repression of aristocratic society.
“I find it, sir, the most painful part of my employment. I was less bored at the seminary.”
Julien confesses to the abbé that dining with the marquis is more tedious than his seminary life.
Julien's honesty reveals his discomfort with the social rituals of the aristocracy.
