The Red and the Black · Character

Abbé de Frilair

The vicar-general of Besançon, a suave ecclesiastical operator who trades favors, collects secrets, and treats souls as pieces on a chessboard.

supporting

Also known as de Frilair, M. de Frilair, Frilair, M. the abbé de Frilair

First appearance: chapter xxix the first promotion

As a supporting figure in The Red and the Black, Abbé de Frilair is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

The powerful grand vicar considers Julien's case, seeing potential to use it for his own political ends, including intimidating Madame de Rênal and reconciling with the Marquis de…

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Abbé de Frilair first appears in 0029 chapter xxix the first promotion.

In A Turret: The powerful grand vicar considers Julien's case, seeing potential to use it for his own political ends, including intimidating Madame de Rênal and reconciling with the Marquis de la Mole.

Later, in Chapter LXVIII. A Powerful Man: The all-powerful leader of the congregation in Besançon, who meets with Mathilde and sees a potential political advantage in helping her.

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Character Web

22 connections

A slice of how Abbé de Frilair sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Verrières and Besançon adversaries
Historical and minor figures

+17 more in the full Character Web

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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…

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In the story

Abbé de Frilair appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

A Turret
The powerful grand vicar considers Julien's case, seeing potential to use it for his own political ends, including intimidating Madame de Rênal and reconciling with the Marquis de la Mole.
Chapter LXVIII. A Powerful Man
The all-powerful leader of the congregation in Besançon, who meets with Mathilde and sees a potential political advantage in helping her.
The Intrigue
Mentioned as the recipient of the bishop's letter that Mathilde hopes to obtain through Madame de Fervaques.
Chapter LXX. Tranquility
Confident in his ability to influence the jury, seeing Julien's case as an opportunity to demonstrate his power.
Chapter LXXI. The Trial
Promises Mathilde to influence the jury, revealing his political machinations.
CHAPTER LXXII
Mentioned as having betrayed Mathilde, and she was unable to see him before visiting hours.
CHAPTER LXXV
Uses his influence to allow Madame de Rênal to see Julien twice a day, and tries to convince Mathilde that Julien is unworthy.

Chapter companion notes

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See Abbé de Frilair in chapter xxix the first promotion

See Abbé de Frilair in A Turret