Bel Ami · Character

Jacques Rival

A seasoned journalist and man about town, he knows how the paper really works and treats Duroy with the ease of an old hand.

supporting

Also known as Rival, Jacques

First appearance: II

See Jacques Rival in II Book page

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Rival belongs to the Vie Francaise's inner circle of writers who shape its political campaigns and swap gossip over drinks. He is worldly, competent, and unimpressed by posturing, moving through salons and newsrooms…

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See Jacques Rival in II

Character Web

18 connections

A slice of how Jacques Rival sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Friendship
Other

Character groups

Core allies and family
Social circle and rivals
Protagonist

+13 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

Du Roy’s demand that Boisrenard suppress the nickname “Forestier” marks the psychological peak of his ruthless…

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Relationships

George Duroy
friendship · positive
George Duroy
friendship · positive
George Duroy
friendship · positive

George Duroy
Jacques is a fellow journalist and friend who serves as a professional ally and occasional rival in the Parisian press world.
George Duroy
Jacques is a fellow journalist and friend who serves as a professional ally and occasional rival in the Parisian press world.
George Duroy
Jacques is a fellow journalist and friend who serves as a professional ally and occasional rival in the Parisian press world.

Relationship notes

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See Jacques Rival in II

In the story

Jacques Rival appears across 8 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

I
Mentioned as one of the guests expected at Forestier's dinner party.
II
Discusses military government for colonization and later speaks about duels.
III
Present in the newsroom, engaging in banter with Forestier about cup and ball.
V
Duroy owes him three hundred francs, indicating a financial relationship and Rival's freehandedness.
VII
Acts as Duroy's second, arranges the duel conditions, and coaches him in shooting.
XI
Hosts the assault-at-arms event and uses the nickname 'Pretty-boy' for Duroy.
XV
Present at the reception, he detains Duroy with conversation, nearly making him late for his meeting with Madame Walter.
Chapter XVIII
A journalist at the wedding, who converses with Norbert de Varenne about Duroy's career and his relationship with Madame Walter.

Chapter companion notes

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See Jacques Rival in II