The Wolf-Leader · Chapter
IX explained
The chapter describes a wolf hunt where Mocquet and the narrator, along with other huntsmen, attempt to kill an old wolf.
What happens
The chapter describes a wolf hunt where Mocquet and the narrator, along with other huntsmen, attempt to kill an old wolf. Despite multiple shots, the wolf escapes, and Mocquet discovers that the bullets, except one marked with a cross, were deflected. He concludes that the wolf is Thibault, the sabot-maker, who has made a pact with the devil, and promises to tell the narrator the tale.
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
Thibault’s psychological peak occurs when he misreads the wolves’ and owls’ devotion as proof of universal lov…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Supernatural and Folklore
The hunt is infused with supernatural elements, as Mocquet attributes the wolf's invulnerability to a pact with the devil, and the bullet marked with a cross is the only one that can wound it.
- Deal with the Devil
Mocquet explicitly states that Thibault has made a compact with the devil, which explains the wolf's ability to evade ordinary bullets.
Characters to notice
- Mocquet
Leads the hunt and reveals his belief that the wolf is Thibault, the devil's accomplice.
- Thibault
Implied to be the wolf they are hunting, as Mocquet swears the wolf is Thibault.
- Baron de Vauparfond
Mentioned as the one who gave permission to tell the tale when the narrator turns fifteen.
- Moynat
One of the best shots, who misses the wolf twice, contributing to the supernatural explanation.
- Mildet
Another skilled shooter who also misses the wolf, reinforcing the idea of devilry.
Key passages
“Because it was made neither of gold nor of silver, my dear boy; and because no bullets but those that are made of gold or silver can pierce the skin of the devil, or kill those who have made a compact with him.”
Mocquet explains that only bullets made of gold or silver can harm the devil or those who have made a pact with him.
This reveals the supernatural rules governing the hunt.
“Think? Yes, I do! I could swear that we have had to do this morning with Thibault, the sabot-maker's wolf.”
Mocquet is certain that the wolf they encountered is Thibault, the sabot-maker, who has transformed into a wolf.
This confirms the identity of the wolf and sets up the tale to follow.
