The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
Epicureans explained
At a lavish fête at Saint-Mandé, Fouquet's guests—including poets La Fontaine and Conrart—engage in a philosophical debate about Epicureanism, using it as a veiled critique of the king's governance.
What happens
At a lavish fête at Saint-Mandé, Fouquet's guests—including poets La Fontaine and Conrart—engage in a philosophical debate about Epicureanism, using it as a veiled critique of the king's governance. Amid the revelry, Fouquet receives urgent news about his failed attempt to free prisoners and is advised to proceed cautiously.
Themes in this chapter
Court Intrigue and Deception
The philosophical debate masks political dissent, while Fouquet's secret mission to free prisoners reveals the underlying intrigue.
Friendship and Betrayal
Fouquet's guests enjoy his hospitality unaware of his peril, and Gourville's advice hints at potential betrayal by the concierge.
Characters to notice
- Nicolas Fouquet
Hosts the fête, appears carefree but is preoccupied with the failed attempt to free prisoners.
- Jean de La Fontaine
Debates with Conrart, defending Epicureanism and linking it to Fouquet's governance.
- Conrart
Argues against La Fontaine, warning that Epicurean ideas are seditious.
- Gourville
Advises Fouquet not to go to the prison himself, urging caution.
- Pélisson
Returns from Paris with news that the concierge refused to release prisoners without a letter from Fouquet.
Key passages
“Why does not our master Epicurus descend into the garden? Epicurus never abandoned his pupils; the master is wrong.”
La Fontaine criticizes Fouquet for not joining his guests, comparing him to Epicurus who stayed with his followers.
Highlights the tension between Fouquet's public role and private concerns.
“Pray for good leaders.”
La Fontaine cites an Epicurean aphorism about desiring good governance.
Used to justify Fouquet's criticism of Mazarin and the king.
“Do not reckon too much on time; were the hours we have twice as many as they are, they would not be too much.”
Pélisson warns Fouquet that time is short and he should act immediately.
Emphasizes the urgency of Fouquet's mission to free the prisoners.