Identity and Disguise

The book is saturated with characters adopting false identities, disguises, and aliases—most notably Arsène Lupin himself, who appears as Prince Sernine, M. Lenormand, and others—exploring the fluidity of self and the power of deception in a world of crime and intrigue.

Prince Sernine operates under multiple aliases and orchestrates the complete replacement of Gérard Baupré's identity with that of the deceased Pierre Leduc.

Lupin's dual identity as Sernine and Lenormand is exposed; the olive-green frock-coat and disguise kit symbolize layered deception.

Lupin's identity as a prisoner contrasts with his role as a master negotiator; the Emperor's identity is concealed during the first visit.

Lupin adopts multiple disguises (workman, artist) and claims the identity of chief of the detective service, while Altenheim's true identity as Raoul de Malreich is uncovered.