After the Storm explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love and Sacrifice

  Raoul's love for Louise is met with betrayal, leading him to sacrifice his hopes and renounce vengeance.

• Honor and Loyalty

  Athos confronts the king to defend his son's honor, and Raoul decides to maintain his honor by not seeking revenge.

• Friendship and Betrayal

  The king's betrayal of Raoul's trust and the supportive friendship of Athos and d'Artagnan are central.

Characters to notice

• Athos

  Confronts the king and confirms the truth to Raoul; remains calm and composed.

• Raoul de Bragelonne

  Devastated by the king's love for Louise; renounces vengeance but remains sorrowful.

• D'Artagnan

  Arrives to console Raoul, feigning ignorance of Athos's meeting with the king.

• Porthos

  Mentioned as having arranged the meeting with Saint-Aignan and waiting at the Minimes.

• Louis XIV

  Confirmed by Athos to love Louise de La Vallière.

• Louise de La Vallière

  Revealed to love the king, causing Raoul's despair.

Key passages

• ““I am, Raoul; the king loves Mademoiselle de La Vallière.” “He confesses it, then?” cried Raoul. “Yes,” replied Athos. “And she?” “I have not seen her.” “No; but the king spoke to you about her. What did he say?” “He says that she loves him.” “Oh, you see⁠—you see, Monsieur!” said the young man, with a gesture of despair.”

  Athos confirms to Raoul that the king loves Louise and that she loves him in return, causing Raoul's despair.

  Key moment of revelation and emotional climax for Raoul.

• ““Poor Raoul!” said Athos, sighing deeply. “Poor Raoul!” said d’Artagnan, shrugging his shoulders.”

  Both Athos and d'Artagnan express pity for Raoul's suffering, though with different tones.

  Shows the shared sympathy of the two friends for Raoul's plight.