The Revolt of the Angels · Chapter
IX explained
Maurice awaits his mistress Gilberte in his flat, growing impatient at her lateness.
What happens
Maurice awaits his mistress Gilberte in his flat, growing impatient at her lateness. When she arrives, they reconcile and make love, but afterward she mentions a bracelet she desires, which Maurice deflects. As they prepare to leave, Gilberte sees a mysterious figure in the room and screams in terror.
Themes in this chapter
Human Nature and Folly
Maurice's jealousy, Gilberte's manipulation, and the sudden intrusion of the supernatural highlight human desires and fears.
Characters to notice
- Maurice d'Esparvieu
Awaiting Gilberte in his flat, wearing flowered pyjamas; feels constancy and fidelity toward her, but is careful with money.
- Gilberte des Aubels
Arrives late to the rendezvous, makes excuses, then mentions a pearl and sapphire bracelet; later sees a terrifying figure in the room.
Key passages
“What augmented his pleasure was that he believed himself loved, and indeed he was not unpleasing.”
His enjoyment was heightened by the belief that she loved him, and he was not unattractive.
Maurice's self-assurance in the affair.
“She was gentle and temperate, she knew men, and judged that one must take them as one found them, that for the most part they do not give very willingly, and that a woman should know how to make them give.”
Gilberte was mild and practical, understanding men's reluctance to give and the need for a woman to coax gifts from them.
Gilberte's pragmatic view of relationships and material exchange.