The Red and the Black · Chapter
Chapter XXXI. The Pleasures Of The Country explained
Julien leaves Verrières for Paris, accompanied by Abbé Pirard, who gives him advice about the de la Mole household.
What happens
Julien leaves Verrières for Paris, accompanied by Abbé Pirard, who gives him advice about the de la Mole household. On the journey, he meets a traveler, M. de Saint Giraud, who complains about provincial life and politics. Julien arrives at the Hôtel de la Mole, where he is struck by its architecture and the social world he is about to enter.
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
- Class and Aristocratic Prejudice
Abbé Pirard describes Madame de la Mole's aristocratic prejudices and the social hierarchy that Julien must navigate.
- Provincial vs. Parisian Society
M. de Saint Giraud's complaints about provincial life contrast with the allure and complexity of Parisian society.
- Self-Identity and Authenticity
Julien feels out of place and reflects on his own character as he prepares to enter a new social sphere.
Characters to notice
- Julien Sorel
Leaves for Paris with Abbé Pirard, receives advice, and arrives at the Hôtel de la Mole.
- Abbé Pirard
Accompanies Julien to Paris, gives him detailed advice about the de la Mole family and social expectations.
- Marquis de la Mole
Mentioned as the benefactor who secured Abbé Pirard's living and is now bringing Julien to Paris.
- Madame de la Mole
Described by Abbé Pirard as a devout, polite, and insignificant woman of aristocratic prejudices.
- M. de Saint Giraud
Traveler who shares his disillusionment with provincial life and politics with Julien on the journey.
- Falcoz
Acquaintance of M. de Saint Giraud, who listens to his complaints about provincial life.
Key passages
“Adsum qui feci. I will say that I am responsible for that resolution.”
I will take responsibility for that decision.
Julien's internal resolve to accept the consequences of his actions.
“O rus quando ego te aspiciam?”
Oh countryside, when shall I see you?
Horace's epigraph reflects Julien's longing for simplicity amid the complexities of Paris.
