# The Return explained — Twenty Years After

> Chapter companion for Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas.

## What happens

Athos and Aramis return to Paris after their mission in England, only to find the city in a state of civil war. They are detained at the gate by the Parisian militia but are recognized and assisted by Planchet, who has become a lieutenant in the civic guard. Planchet provides news of Raoul de Bragelonne and the political situation, while Aramis briefly suspects he sees Mazarin disguised among other travelers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

Athos and Aramis rely on Planchet's loyalty to gain entry into Paris, and Athos's concern for Raoul underscores the bonds of friendship and duty.

### Revolution and Rebellion

The chapter depicts Paris in open rebellion against the crown, with citizens arming, barricades, and a makeshift army challenging royal authority.

## Character check-ins

### Athos

Returns to Paris with Aramis, anxious for news of Raoul, and shows characteristic composure and dignity when challenged at the gate.

### Aramis

Returns with Athos, keenly observant; suspects he recognizes Mazarin in disguise among the travelers.

### Planchet

Now a lieutenant in the Parisian militia, he vouches for Athos and Aramis, provides news of Raoul, and recounts his own rise in popularity.

### Grimaud

Accompanies Athos and Aramis; is honored when Planchet presses his hand.

### Raoul

Reported by Planchet to be safe at the Hôtel of the Great Charlemagne, spending time with the Queen of England and Madame de Chevreuse.

### Mazarin

Aramis suspects he saw Mazarin disguised among three travelers passing through the guard post.

## Key lines

> dear Athos, without inquiring further about our friend, to pay my respects to M. Planchet.

Aramis suggests they stop worrying about d'Artagnan for now and greet Planchet.

_Aramis shifts focus to Planchet, indicating trust in d'Artagnan's resourcefulness._

> I was very near being hung by Mazarin and that made me more popular than ever.

Planchet explains that his near-execution by Mazarin boosted his popularity.

_Planchet's brush with death ironically elevated his standing among the Parisians._

> We are seeking our king.

The Parisian army's banner declares their intent to find the king.

_The banner reflects the paradoxical position of the rebels, who claim loyalty to the king while opposing his ministers._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se/chapters/lxxv-the-return
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/twenty_years_after_se/chapters