Monsieur Et Mademoiselle
The narrative centers on two French children, Monsieur and Mademoiselle, who embody the essence of youthful innocence and joy. Their interactions reflect a charming simplicity and politeness, contrasting with the more serious demeanor often found in English society. The children engage in lighthearted conversation while sharing a melon, showcasing their carefree nature and camaraderie. The setting is modest, with bare floors and thin curtains, emphasizing their humble lifestyle. Despite their meager meals, they find happiness in their daily routines, such as ironing and shoe polishing, which they approach with a sense of pride and joy. The narrator expresses a longing for the lightheartedness and simplicity of the children's lives, wishing that such qualities could permeate the more serious and solemn aspects of English life. The work highlights themes of innocence, cultural contrast, and the value of joy in everyday activities, ultimately advocating for a more carefree and appreciative approach to life.
By Dinah Mulock · First published 1856 · Genre: Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction · 289 words
First lines
DEUX petits enfants Francais, Monsieur et Mademoiselle. Of what can they be talking, child? Indeed I cannot tell. But of this I am very certain, You would find naught to blame In that sweet French politeness -- I wish we had the same.
Monsieur has got a melon, And scoops it with his knife, While Mademoiselle sits watching him: No rudeness here -- no strife: Though could you listen only, They're chattering like two pies -- French magpies, understand me -- So merry and so wise.
Their floor is bare of carpet, Their curtains are so thin, They dine on meagre _potage_, and Put many an onion in! Her snow-white caps she irons: He blacks his shoes, he can; Yet she's a little lady And he's a gentleman.
What this Textopian page supports
Monsieur Et Mademoiselle is listed on Textopian as a short story by Dinah Mulock, dated 1856 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Dinah Mulock
- Date: 1856 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction
- Length: 289 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Monsieur Et Mademoiselle by Dinah Mulock
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Monsieur Et Mademoiselle?
- How does this short story by Dinah Mulock fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Romance first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Romance — The book primarily explores romantic interactions between characters Monsieur and Mademoiselle
- Drama — The characters' emotional dynamics and experiences form the essence of the book making it a drama
- Historical Fiction — The book engages with cultural norms and societal context of its setting, giving it elements of historical fiction
Tags
romance · 19th century · French culture · social class · family dynamics · love story · character development · historical fiction · gender roles · society · friendship · personal growth