Balzac, Le Colonel Chabert Flashcards
What role does Derville play in “Le Colonel Chabert,” and what is he striving for?
Derville is a self-made bourgeois striving for wealth.
How is Countess Ferraud’s wealth connected to her marriage?
Countess Ferraud’s wealth is tied to her marriage with Count Ferraud, and it grows despite political instability.
How is Colonel Chabert’s identity affected by the war, and what is the consequence of this identity loss?
Colonel Chabert’s identity is completely erased after the war, and in practice, “Colonel Chabert” is considered dead. As such, he loses all his property and money.
Briefly summarize the main plot points of “Le Colonel Chabert.”
Colonel Chabert, presumed dead, reappears, challenging his widow Countess Ferraud’s fortune. She faces a dilemma: reveal the resurrection and lose everything or keep it secret amidst political challenges. Key themes include money, the contrast between Napoleonic and Restoration societies, and the identity erasure of Colonel Chabert.
Theme: Money
Derville’s role as a self-made bourgeois in pursuit of wealth.
The value of Derville’s work compared to the money he will earn.
Countess Ferraud’s wealth and its connection to her marriage with Count Ferraud.
Countess’s fortune growth amidst political instability.
Restoration of property to noble members.
Theme: Theatre
Definition of a spectacle.
Reference to Talma, the republican tragedian.
Colonel Chabert as the best actor in Paris.
Episode with the countess in the countryside.
