Fantômas · Chapter
An Unexpected Accomplice explained
Gurn, a condemned murderer, manipulates the warder Nibet into helping him escape from prison.
What happens
Gurn, a condemned murderer, manipulates the warder Nibet into helping him escape from prison. Nibet, bribed by Lady Beltham, provides Gurn with money, a disguise, and a plan to slip out with the workmen. Gurn's escape is set for the following evening.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Lady Beltham’s d…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Crime and Justice
Gurn's manipulation of the prison system and the warder's corruption highlight the theme of justice being subverted by crime.
- Obsession and Vengeance
Lady Beltham's obsessive devotion to Gurn drives her to fund his escape, despite his role in her husband's murder.
Characters to notice
- M. Gurn
The condemned murderer who orchestrates his escape by bribing the warder Nibet.
- Nibet
The warder who becomes Gurn's accomplice, motivated by money from Lady Beltham.
- Lady Beltham
The mysterious benefactor who provides the funds to bribe Nibet and arrange Gurn's escape.
Key passages
“They do when you help them, and you and I are going to help them.”
Things only work out if you take action, and we will take action together.
Gurn asserts his control over the situation, compelling Nibet to cooperate.
“I am to meet her tonight at eleven, in the boulevard Arago.”
I have an appointment with the lady at eleven o'clock on the boulevard Arago.
Nibet reveals the meeting place where Lady Beltham will provide further instructions.
“In one of the pockets of the clothes, I have put ten hundred-franc notes; you asked for more, but I could not raise it.”
I've placed ten hundred-franc notes in the clothing; I couldn't get more than that.
Nibet provides Gurn with escape money, though less than requested.
