The Marriage of the Brigadier

Name: The Marriage of the Brigadier
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows Lieutenant Etienne Gerard, a Hussar officer, reflecting on his past during a peaceful summer in Normandy. He recounts his infatuation with Marie Ravon, a beautiful local maiden, and the complexities of their relationship. Despite their mutual attraction, Gerard believes that marriage is impractical for a soldier, and Marie seems to share this sentiment, preferring to remain with her family and land. One evening, Gerard decides to visit Marie, ignoring warnings about a dangerous bull in the field. As he crosses the field, he encounters the bull, which charges at him. In a moment of panic, he flees, ultimately leaping through Marie's bedroom window to escape. This dramatic entrance leads him to propose to her, and she joyfully accepts, captivated by his bravery. The story explores themes of love, honor, and the conflict between duty and personal desire. Gerard's initial reluctance to marry is challenged by the depth of his feelings for Marie, culminating in a spontaneous engagement that defies the expectations of both their worlds. The narrative concludes with a sense of joy and hope, as Gerard leaves the Ravon household, contemplating his future with Marie.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1930 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure · 5,169 words

First lines

I am speaking, my friends, of days which are long gone by, when I had scarcely begun to build up that fame which has made my name so familiar. Among the thirty officers of the Hussars of Conflans there was nothing to indicate that I was superior in any way to the others. I can well imagine how surprised they would all have been had they realized that young Lieutenant Etienne Gerard was destined for so glorious a career, and would live to command a brigade and to receive from the Emperor's own hands that cross which I can show you any time that you do me the honour to visit me in my little cottage. You know, do you not, the little white-washed cottage with the vine in front, in the field beside the Garonne?

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The Marriage of the Brigadier is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1930 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1930 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure, Comedy, Military Fiction
Length: 5,169 words
Structure: 1 section, 44 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The story is set during a specific historical period, focusing on the life of a Hussar in France, incorporating historical events and military themes.
Romance — The central plot revolves around the romantic relationship between Etienne Gerard and Marie Ravon, exploring themes of love and courtship.
Adventure — The protagonist experiences various adventures, including encounters with danger, which drive the narrative forward.
Comedy — The story contains humorous elements, particularly in the protagonist's interactions and the absurdity of his situation with the bull.