# Identity and Deception in The Eight Strokes of the Clock

> Theme guide for The Eight Strokes of the Clock by Maurice Leblanc.

Themes of hidden identity are central, with Prince Rénine strongly implied to be Arsène Lupin in disguise, and characters frequently assume false roles or conceal their true intentions, as seen in the case of Jean Louis and the lady with the hatchet.

## Where it surfaces

- [Author's Note](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/author-s-note): The author questions whether Prince Rénine and Arsène Lupin are the same person, highlighting themes of disguise and dual identity.
- [I: On the Top of the Tower](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/i-on-the-top-of-the-tower): The count's hidden past as a murderer and the mystery of the skeletons reveal layers of deception.
- [The Case of Jean Louis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/iii-the-case-of-jean-louis): Jean Louis's dual names and the disputed identities of the two children highlight the theme of uncertain identity and the deception of the midwife's story.
- [IV: The Telltale Film](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/iv-the-telltale-film): The same actor plays both butler and woodcutter; Rose disguises herself; Rénine hides Dalbrèque in plain sight.
- [V: Thérèse and Germaine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/v-th-r-se-and-germaine): Germaine's hidden role as the mastermind behind the plot and the stolen letters highlight themes of deceit and false appearances.
- [The Lady with the Hatchet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/vi-the-lady-with-the-hatchet): M. de Lourtier hides his true marital status and his wife's madness, while the killer's identity is concealed until the climax.
- [Footprints in the Snow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/chapters/vii-footprints-in-the-snow): Mathias de Gorne fakes his own death to collect insurance money, deceiving his family and the authorities.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/themes/identity_and_deception
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_eight_strokes_of_the_clock_se/themes