Under the Red Robe

Name: Under the Red Robe
Author: Stanley J. Weyman

The narrative follows Gil de Berault, a skilled swordsman and gambler in 17th-century France, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of honor, love, and betrayal. The story begins with a tense gambling scene where de Berault is accused of cheating by a young Englishman, leading to a duel that results in the Englishman's death. This act draws the ire of the Cardinal, who has forbidden dueling, and de Berault finds himself in a precarious position. After being imprisoned, de Berault is released under the condition that he must capture a rebel leader, M. de Cocheforet, who is hiding in the countryside. De Berault's journey takes him to the estate of Cocheforet, where he encounters the noblewomen of the household, including Mademoiselle de Cocheforet, who captivates him with her beauty and strength. As he navigates the complexities of his mission, he grapples with his growing feelings for her and the moral implications of betraying her trust. The plot thickens as de Berault discovers that Cocheforet is indeed in the area, and he must decide whether to fulfill his mission or protect the man and the women he has come to care for. Tensions rise when soldiers arrive in the village, searching for Cocheforet, and de Berault must act quickly to prevent his capture. In a twist of fate, he finds himself in a position to save Clon, a mute servant, from torture at the hands of the soldiers, showcasing his evolving sense of honor. As the story unfolds, de Berault's internal conflict intensifies. He is torn between his duty to the Cardinal and his growing affection for Mademoiselle de Cocheforet. The climax occurs when de Berault confronts the soldiers, leading to a dramatic showdown that tests his skills and resolve. Ultimately, he must confront the consequences of his actions and the choices he has made, leading to a resolution that intertwines themes of redemption, honor, and the complexities of love. The narrative is rich with historical detail, exploring the societal norms of the time, the code of honor among gentlemen, and the struggles of individuals caught in the web of political intrigue. De Berault's journey is one of self-discovery, as he navigates the treacherous waters of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for personal redemption.

By Stanley J. Weyman · First published 1894 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Romance · 15 chapters · 77,980 words

First lines

'Marked cards!'

There were a score round us when the fool, little knowing the man with whom he had to deal, and as little how to lose like a gentleman, flung the words in my teeth. He thought, I'll be sworn, that I should storm and swear and ruffle it like any common cock of the hackle. But that was never Gil de Berault's way. For a few seconds after he had spoken I did not even look at him. I passed my eye instead -- smiling, BIEN ENTENDU -- round the ring of waiting faces, saw that there was no one except De Pombal I had cause to fear; and then at last I rose and looked at the fool with the grim face I have known impose on older and wiser men.

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Under the Red Robe is listed on Textopian as a novel by Stanley J. Weyman, dated 1894 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Stanley J. Weyman
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Romance, Drama, Thriller
Length: 77,980 words
Structure: 15 chapters, 1,450 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The novel is set in a specific historical context, exploring themes and events from the past.
Adventure — The plot involves a journey and various escapades, typical of adventure narratives.
Romance — Romantic elements are woven into the storyline, influencing character motivations and conflicts.
Drama — The book features intense emotional conflicts and character development, characteristic of dramatic literature.