The Mysteries of Udolpho · Character
Madame Clairval
A wealthy widow who befriends Valancourt.
minor
First appearance: xxiv
Madame Clairval shows up with force in Chapter XII. The page is where that presence becomes real.
Madame Clairval is mentioned as the wealthy aunt of Valancourt, whose connection motivates Madame Cheron's change of heart.
Madame Clairval first appears in 0025 xxiv.
In Chapter XII: Madame Clairval is mentioned as the wealthy aunt of Valancourt, whose connection motivates Madame Cheron's change of heart. She has a daughter, a fact Valancourt has not forgotten.
Later, in Chapter XIII: Passive and secretly pleased at the separation, she withholds support for Valancourt's marriage due to fortune considerations.
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Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Valancourt, ov…
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Madame Clairval appears across 2 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
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See Madame Clairval in xxiv