The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
The Rat and the Cheese explained
D'Artagnan and Porthos visit Planchet's shop before traveling to Fontainebleau.
What happens
D'Artagnan and Porthos visit Planchet's shop before traveling to Fontainebleau. Porthos indulges in Planchet's goods with enormous appetite, causing concern among the staff. The journey is marked by Porthos's friendly but overwhelming presence and conversations about land and retirement.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Social Mobility
Porthos and Planchet's interaction illustrates the shifting social dynamics, as Planchet, a former lackey turned prosperous grocer, is treated with respect by the baron.
Friendship and Betrayal
The camaraderie between d'Artagnan, Porthos, and Planchet is evident, with Planchet's loyalty and Porthos's good-natured familiarity reinforcing their bond.
Characters to notice
- D'Artagnan
Travels with Porthos to Planchet's shop and then to Fontainebleau; observes Porthos's appetite and engages in conversation about past political affairs.
- Porthos
Visits Planchet's shop, consumes large quantities of dried fruits, nuts, and honey; travels to Fontainebleau discussing land and retirement with Planchet.
- Planchet
Hosts Porthos and d'Artagnan in his shop; expresses anxiety about Porthos's appetite but shows respect; travels with them to Fontainebleau.
Key passages
“Porthos, who was a little cold and stiff in his manners at first, on account of the social difference existing at that period between a baron and a grocer, soon began to soften when he perceived so much good-feeling and so many kind attentions in Planchet.”
Initially reserved due to class distinctions, Porthos warmed up to Planchet upon seeing his genuine kindness.
Highlights the theme of class and social mobility.
“Planchet was agitated in every fibre of propriety and self-esteem. However, a worthy representative of the hospitality which prevailed in early days, he feigned to be talking very earnestly with d'Artagnan...”
Planchet was deeply concerned about Porthos's consumption but maintained a facade of polite conversation out of hospitality.
Illustrates Planchet's internal conflict between propriety and anxiety.