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The Wolf-Leader · Chapter

V explained

The narrator's father, the General, listens to Mocquet's account of being nightmared by Mother Durand.

What happens

The narrator's father, the General, listens to Mocquet's account of being nightmared by Mother Durand. Though skeptical, he feigns belief to prevent Mocquet from taking revenge. The conversation reveals Mocquet's superstitions and his unique terminology, including his insistence on calling wild beasts 'wily beasts.'

Themes in this chapter

  • Supernatural and Folklore

    Mocquet's belief in being 'nightmared' by a witch reflects the persistence of folk superstitions.

Characters to notice

  • Mocquet

    Reports his nightmare and accuses Mother Durand; discusses his remedies and his unique phrase 'wily beast.'

  • General

    The narrator's father, who listens to Mocquet's tale and tries to manage his superstitions.

Key passages

  • “I must look carefully into this matter”

    The General decides to investigate the situation thoroughly.

    The General's initial reaction to Mocquet's tale.

  • “I did what I do when I want to catch a wily beast.”

    Mocquet used his usual method for trapping a cunning animal.

    Mocquet's approach to dealing with the nightmare.

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