# XI explained — The Revolt of the Angels

> Chapter companion for The Revolt of the Angels by Anatole France.

## What happens

Arcade, now dressed in a suicide's cast-off clothes, reveals his angelic nature to Gilberte and explains the hierarchy of angels. He leaves Maurice, who realizes he no longer has a guardian angel, and discusses the spiritual consequences of this loss.

## Themes in this chapter

### Knowledge and Enlightenment

Arcade discusses scientific and philosophical ideas, blending theology with modern science.

### Human Nature and Folly

The chapter explores human reactions to the supernatural, including Gilberte's pragmatism and Maurice's anxiety.

## Character check-ins

### Arcade

The angel, now in human form, explains his celestial origin and departs from Maurice.

### Gilberte des Aubels

Madame des Aubels, caught in a compromising situation, interacts with Arcade and dresses in his presence.

### Maurice d'Esparvieu

Maurice procures clothes for Arcade and confronts the loss of his guardian angel.

## Key lines

> Reassure yourself, Madame, your position is not as risky as you say. You are not confronted with two men, but with one man and an angel.

Arcade tells Gilberte that she is not in a dangerous situation with two men, but rather with one man and an angel.

_Arcade introduces his angelic identity to Gilberte._

> I belong to the ninth choir of the third hierarchy.

Arcade specifies his rank in the angelic hierarchy as part of the ninth choir of the third hierarchy.

_Arcade explains his celestial classification._

> The loss of your guardian angel will probably deprive you of certain spiritual succour, of certain celestial grace.

Arcade warns Maurice that losing his guardian angel will result in a lack of spiritual support and grace.

_Arcade outlines the consequences for Maurice._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_revolt_of_the_angels_se/chapters/xi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_revolt_of_the_angels_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_revolt_of_the_angels_se/chapters