Là-Bas · Chapter
XIX explained
Durtal accompanies Mme.
What happens
Durtal accompanies Mme. Chantelouve to a Black Mass in a secluded chapel, where Canon Docre leads a sacrilegious ceremony invoking Satan and desecrating the Eucharist. Repulsed by the experience and his companion's involvement, Durtal breaks off their relationship afterward.
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
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Durtal decisiv…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Satanism and Evil
The chapter centers on a Black Mass where Canon Docre leads a ritual worship of Satan, including a blasphemous prayer and desecration of the Eucharist.
- Religion and Blasphemy
The ceremony inverts Catholic liturgy, using sacred elements to mock and defy Christian beliefs, highlighting Durtal's horror at the sacrilege.
- Obsession and Desire
Durtal's revulsion and his decision to break off with Mme. Chantelouve underscore his conflicted desires and the toxic nature of their relationship.
Characters to notice
- Durtal
Attends the Black Mass reluctantly, observes the ritual with disgust, and resolves to end his affair with Mme. Chantelouve.
- Mme Chantelouve
Leads Durtal to the chapel, participates in the ceremony, and is rebuffed when she seeks to continue their relationship afterward.
- Canon Docre
Presides over the Black Mass, delivering a blasphemous invocation to Satan and desecrating the host.
Key passages
“In a fiacre they went up the rue de Vaugirard. Mme. Chantelouve was as in a shell and spoke not a word.”
They rode in a hired cab along rue de Vaugirard, with Mme. Chantelouve silent and withdrawn.
Sets the tense, silent atmosphere before the Black Mass.
“Master of Slanders, Dispenser of the benefits of crime, Administrator of sumptuous sins and great vices, Satan, thee we adore, reasonable God, just God!”
Canon Docre addresses Satan as the lord of slander and crime, praising him as a just and rational deity.
Key excerpt from the blasphemous invocation during the Black Mass.
“No,” he answered. “We have nothing in common. You wish everything and I wish nothing. Better break.”
Durtal refuses Mme. Chantelouve's advances, stating they want different things and should end their relationship.
Durtal's decisive break after the traumatic experience.
