Scrambles Amongst the Alps in the Years 1860–69 · Character

Michel Croz

A bold, obliging Chamounix guide whose dash on the rock supplies exactly what steadier companions lack, and whose easy comradeship Whymper recalls with open affection.

major

Also known as Michel Croz of Chamounix, Croz, the cautious Michel

First appearance: Scrambles Amongst the Alps in the Years 1860–69

As a major figure in Scrambles Amongst the Alps in the Years 1860–69, Michel Croz is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

A cautious and reliable guide from Chamounix, part of Whymper's team.

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Croz is the human engine of Whymper's rope, the guide whose fire and dash balance Almer's caution and who works so well with his partners that each confesses to liking the other for it. Left behind at Chamounix, he kicks his heels in visible dejection while the others take his native Aiguilles, a small scene that reveals how deeply he needs the mountains. His warmth and skill make him the emotional center of the guiding team, and Whymper's later reflection that they can never work together again casts a long shadow over the climbs.

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

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In the story

Michel Croz appears across 17 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Scrambles Amongst the Alps in the Years 1860–69
A cautious and reliable guide from Chamounix, part of Whymper's team.
From St. Michel on the Mont Cenis Road, by the Col des Aiguilles d’Arve, Col de Martignare, and the Brêche de la Meije, to La Bérarde
Guide praised for his strength, skill, and enthusiasm; described as 'the man who was most after my own heart.'
IX: The Ascent of the Pointe des Écrins
Guide who cuts steps on the hard ice and later assists in the descent.
X: On the First Passage of the Col de Pilatte
Leads the ascent through the glacier and couloir, cuts steps on the steep ice slope, and executes the dangerous jump over the bergschrund.
Passage of the Col de Triolet, and First Ascents of Mont Dolent, Aiguille de Trélatête, and Aiguille d’Argentière
Guide who accompanied Whymper down the Glacier d'Argentière.
XII: The Moming Pass—Zermatt
Proposes a middle route up steep glacier, then abandons it for Almer's rocks; cuts steps across a perilous ice-slope.
XIII: The First Ascent of the Grand Cornier
One of Whymper's leading guides; speaks only French, works harmoniously with Almer.
The Ascent of the Dent Blanche
Guide; prophesies wind trouble, advises return, but continues; identifies the cairn on the summit.
Lost on the Col d'Hérens—My Seventh Attempt to Ascend the Matterhorn
Took over the lead from Biener but steered in a semicircle; later caught the idea of the new route and deemed it feasible.
The First Passage of the Col Dolent
Leads the descent, cutting steps and anchoring to rocks; first to go down the ice slope.
XVIII: Ascent of the Aiguille Verte
Parted from Whymper at the start of the chapter; waited for a new employer in Chamounix.
XX: The First Ascent of the Ruinette—The Matterhorn
Former guide of Whymper, now engaged by Rev. Charles Hudson; encountered at Zermatt.
The First Ascent of the Matterhorn
Key guide who plants the flag on the summit and assists in the ascent.
Descent of the Matterhorn
Lead guide; places Hadow's feet, then slips and falls, dragging others down; body recovered and buried in Zermatt.
D: Table of Attempts Made to Ascend the Matterhorn Previous to the First Ascent
Guided attempt 14 in 1865.
E: Ascents of the Matterhorn
Guide on the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865.
List of Illustrations
Portrait included (1865); prominent guide and companion.

Chapter companion notes

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