The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
Parry explained
The chapter introduces an unnamed young man staying at the Medici inn in Blois, who sells his last diamond to pay for lodging.
What happens
The chapter introduces an unnamed young man staying at the Medici inn in Blois, who sells his last diamond to pay for lodging. His faithful servant Parry returns from England with bad news: General Monck refused his plea and had him deported. The young man, bitter and impoverished, watches the triumphant arrival of King Louis XIV and his court, contrasting their splendor with his own fallen state. He resolves to take action, girding his sword and leaving the inn to seek his fortune.
Themes in this chapter
Fate and Tragedy
Charles II's fall from kingship to poverty and his bitter contrast with Louis XIV's triumph highlight the tragic turn of fortune.
Class and Social Mobility
The chapter contrasts the splendor of the French king with the destitution of the English king, emphasizing the precariousness of royal status.
Honor and Loyalty
Parry's faithful service and Charles II's determination to act despite his degradation underscore themes of loyalty and personal honor.
Characters to notice
- Charles II
The unnamed young man is revealed to be Charles II, the exiled King of England, who is impoverished and staying at the Medici inn.
- Parry
Parry is Charles II's faithful old servant, who returns from England with news of General Monck's refusal and his deportation.
- Louis XIV
Louis XIV is seen passing through Blois in a grand procession, celebrated by the crowd, contrasting with Charles II's plight.
- General Monck
General Monck is mentioned as the English general who refused to meet with Parry and had him deported.
Key passages
““Ah! Parry,” replied the young man ironically, “don’t you know that this is the King of France visiting his good city of Blois? All these trumpets are his, all those gilded housings are his, all those gentlemen wear swords that are his.””
Charles II bitterly explains to Parry that the celebration is for the King of France, highlighting the contrast between Louis XIV's wealth and his own poverty.
This quote captures Charles II's envy and despair as he watches the French king's procession.
““I have still two hundred and seventy-four pistoles left and I feel myself rich. I do not despair, Parry; have you faith in my resignation?””
Despite his meager funds, Charles II tries to maintain hope and asks Parry to believe in his perseverance.
This shows Charles II's attempt to remain resilient in the face of adversity.
““He is a king!” murmured he, in an accent of despair.”
Charles II mutters in despair as he watches Louis XIV pass by, feeling the weight of his own lost kingship.
This moment encapsulates Charles II's anguish and jealousy.