Cowardice and Courage

The book contrasts physical courage (dueling, facing death) with moral courage (speaking truth to power), and examines how characters like André-Louis grapple with fear, honor, and the choice between flight and confrontation.

Philippe shows moral courage by confronting the Marquis directly, while André-Louis's caution is portrayed as a more pragmatic, though less heroic, response to danger.

M. de Kercadiou's fear of confronting the Marquis contrasts with André-Louis's courageous determination to seek justice despite the risks.

André-Louis shows courage in binding Fresnel and continuing his flight, while Fresnel's terror and Aline's pragmatic caution contrast with his defiance.

André-Louis shows courage in facing Binet's blackmail and the threat of arrest, while Binet's actions reveal a cowardly willingness to exploit others for personal gain.