The Red and the Black · Chapter
Chapter XXV. The Seminary explained
Julien Sorel arrives at the seminary in Besançon, overwhelmed by fear and the oppressive atmosphere.
What happens
Julien Sorel arrives at the seminary in Besançon, overwhelmed by fear and the oppressive atmosphere. He meets the director, Abbé Pirard, who questions him sternly, reads a letter of recommendation from Curé Chélan, and assigns him to a cell. Julien collapses from exhaustion and later faints during his interview, but is given a place and begins his new life under strict religious discipline.
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 Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Mathilde’s pride—her defining trait—shatters here as she openly begs Julien for reassurance, weeping and admit…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Religion as Institution
The seminary is depicted as a rigid institution where obedience and conformity are paramount, contrasting with personal faith.
- Self-Identity and Authenticity
Julien struggles to maintain his sense of self in an environment that demands complete submission, highlighting his internal conflict.
Characters to notice
- Julien Sorel
Arrives at the seminary, overwhelmed and fainting; receives a cell and begins his new life.
- Abbé Pirard
The director of the seminary, stern and intimidating, interviews Julien and assigns him to cell No. 103.
- Curé Chélan
Recommended Julien to the seminary; his letter is read by Abbé Pirard.
Key passages
“If you had not been recommended by a man, by the abbé Chélan, I would talk to you the vain language of that world, to which it would appear you are only too well accustomed.”
Abbé Pirard tells Julien that because he was recommended by Abbé Chélan, he will speak plainly, not with the flattery of the world.
Pirard sets the tone of strictness and honesty, contrasting with worldly hypocrisy.
“That expression is not used here. It is too reminiscent of that vain honour of worldly people, which leads them to so many errors and often to so many crimes.”
Pirard rebukes Julien for using the phrase 'word of honour,' saying it reflects worldly vanity and is inappropriate in the seminary.
Highlights the seminary's rejection of worldly values and emphasis on obedience.
