Chapter 2, Father and Son "The Count of Monte Cristo"

Question

How Dantes contributes to the development of the theme, give examples from this chapter.

The room was as occupied by Dantès' father. The news of the arrival of the Pharaon had not yet reached the old man, who, mounted on a chair, was amusing himself by training with trembling hand the nasturtiums and sprays of clematis that clambered over the trellis at his window. Suddenly, he felt an arm thrown around his body, and a well-known voice behind him exclaimed, "Father—dear father!"

The old man uttered a cry, and turned round; then, seeing his son, he fell into his arms, pale and trembling.

"What ails you, my dearest father? Are you ill?" inquired the young man, much alarmed.

"God forgive me," said the young man, "for rejoicing at happiness derived from the misery of others, but, Heaven knows, I did not seek this good fortune; it has happened, and I really cannot pretend to lament it. The good Captain Leclere is dead, father, and it is probable that, with the aid of M. Morrel, I shall have his place. Do you understand, father? Only imagine me a captain at twenty, with a hundred louis pay, and a share in the profits! Is this not more than a poor sailor like me could have hoped for?"

"Yes, my dear boy," replied the old man, "it is very fortunate."

"Well, then, with the first money I touch, I mean you to have a small house, with a garden in which to plant clematis, nasturtiums, and honeysuckle. But what ails you, father? Are you not well?"
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"And you paid him out of the two hundred francs I left you?"

The old man nodded.

Answer 1

In Chapter 2 of "The Count of Monte Cristo," we witness the relationship between Edmond Dantès and his father, which plays a crucial role in developing the themes of familial loyalty and ambition within the story. This chapter serves to highlight Dantès’ compassion, the burden of responsibility he feels, and the contrasting realities of joy and sorrow.

1. Familial Loyalty and Sacrifice: Dantès' devotion to his father is evident when he expresses deep concern for his father's well-being. Despite the young man's excitement over his own fortune, he immediately senses something is wrong with his father: “What ails you, my dearest father? Are you ill?” This shows that Dantès prioritizes the emotional and physical health of his father over his own ambitions. The theme of familial loyalty is further reinforced when he promises to use his fortune to provide for his father—a small house with a garden filled with flowers that his father enjoys. This signifies Dantès’ desire to protect and care for his family, illustrating that his ambition is not solely for personal gain, but also to uplift and honor his father.

2. Ambition vs. Morality: Dantès grapples with the moral implications of his newfound fortune, especially regarding the death of Captain Leclère. He admits to his father that he feels guilty for being happy about something that comes from someone else's misfortune: “God forgive me... I did not seek this good fortune; it has happened, and I really cannot pretend to lament it.” This internal conflict highlights the complexity of ambition intertwined with morality, setting the stage for his character development in the narrative. Dantès’ plea for forgiveness shows a noble side to his character; he understands that his success is tied to another's death, a theme that recurs throughout the novel as he navigates his own journey of vengeance and justice.

3. Impact of External Circumstances: Dantès mentions the news of his promotion to captain is overshadowed by his father’s frail condition and the shadow of Captain Leclère’s demise. This introduces the theme of how external circumstances influence personal destinies. Dantès' rise from humble sailor to captain illustrates the unpredictability of fortune and fate, which is a recurring theme as his journey progresses. Even in this moment of supposed triumph, there's an underlying awareness of the broader implications of his happiness, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human experiences.

In summary, Dantès enhances the themes of familial loyalty and the moral ambiguities surrounding ambition in Chapter 2. His relationship with his father encapsulates the depth of his character—illustrating his compassion, the burdens of responsibility, and the complex nature of success that is shadowed by the tragedies of others. These themes are foundational to understanding Dantès' character arc as he seeks justice throughout the novel.