The Wolf-Leader · Chapter
XIII: Where It Is Demonstrated That a Woman Never Speaks More Eloquently Than When She Holds Her Tongue explained
Thibault witnesses Suzanne fainting in the Baron's arms, but the Baron cleverly explains the situation to the returning Bailiff, who accepts his story.
What happens
Thibault witnesses Suzanne fainting in the Baron's arms, but the Baron cleverly explains the situation to the returning Bailiff, who accepts his story. Thibault's threats and accusations are defused by the Bailiff's forgiving nature, and the Baron warns Thibault about his reputation for witchcraft and wolf-keeping. Thibault leaves in a rage, wandering into the forest.
Themes in this chapter
Jealousy and Obsession
Thibault's jealousy over Suzanne and the Baron drives him to rage and threats, showing how obsession can corrupt.
Class and Power
The Baron's authority over the bailiff and Thibault, and the bailiff's humble acceptance, highlight class dynamics.
Supernatural and Folklore
The Baron accuses Thibault of witchcraft and running with wolves, referencing supernatural beliefs.
Characters to notice
- Thibault
Thibault's jealousy and rage grow as he witnesses Suzanne with the Baron, and he threatens them, but is ultimately forced to leave.
- Madame Magloire
Suzanne faints in the Baron's arms, then later weeps and kisses her husband's hands, moved by his forgiveness.
- Baron de Vauparfond
The Baron coolly explains Suzanne's faint to the Bailiff, threatens Thibault, and warns him about his reputation for witchcraft.
- Bailiff Népomucène Magloire
The Bailiff shows remarkable forgiveness and kindness, calming the situation and protecting Thibault from the Baron's anger.
Key passages
“Triple dyed idiot! murmured the shoemaker, unless I ought rather to call him a doubly clever dissembler.”
Thibault thinks the bailiff is either a fool or a clever pretender.
Thibault's internal contempt for the bailiff's trust.
“I do not know what holds me back from putting a terrible end to all this!”
Thibault threatens to cause a disaster.
Thibault's rage and hint of his supernatural powers.
“When one is small and of little account it is best to submit quietly and to trust; one need have no fear then but of cowards and evildoers.”
The bailiff advises humility and trust, fearing only the wicked.
The bailiff's philosophy of life.