The Vicomte de Bragelonne · Chapter
A Lover and His Mistress explained
In the wake of Gaston d'Orléans's death, Malicorne and Montalais engage in a playful yet tense negotiation over a commission of lady of honor for Montalais.
What happens
In the wake of Gaston d'Orléans's death, Malicorne and Montalais engage in a playful yet tense negotiation over a commission of lady of honor for Montalais. Their banter reveals a complex relationship of mutual need and manipulation, culminating in a kiss interrupted by Madame de Saint-Remy.
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
This is the story's dramatic climax because Raoul reaches his emotional and psychological nadir, fully interna…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Court Intrigue and Deception
Malicorne and Montalais's relationship is built on manipulation and hidden agendas, reflecting the deceptive nature of court life.
- Class and Social Mobility
Montalais's pursuit of a lady of honor commission highlights the importance of social advancement through court positions.
Characters to notice
- Malicorne
A cunning clerk who uses his influence to secure a commission for Montalais, revealing his manipulative yet affectionate nature.
- Mademoiselle de Montalais
A proud and coquettish young woman who desires a court position and engages in a power struggle with Malicorne.
- Madame de Chevreuse
Mentioned indirectly as Madame de Saint-Remy, who interrupts the lovers' embrace.
Key passages
“Your father has not twenty thousand livres a year for nothing, M. Malicorne.”
Montalais implies that Malicorne's family wealth gives him influence.
Highlights the theme of class and social mobility.
“I have given you a commission of lady of honor which you wished for; you will give me, presently, something I wish for.”
Malicorne reminds Montalais of their reciprocal arrangement.
Illustrates the transactional nature of their relationship.
