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The Count of Monte Cristo
The Count of Monte Cristo takes place in 19th century France. During this period in France’s history, Napoleon was no longer king and there were two different political groups and the country was divided by two ruling parties. The Royalists were supporters of King Louis and the Bonapartist were loyal to Napoleon.
The Count of Monte Cristo is the story about a sailor, Edmond Dantes, who was betrayed during the prime of his life and career because of the jealousy of his friends. His shipmate, Danglars, became jealous when Edmond was named captain of the ship, Pharon. Ferdinand Mondego, another friend, was in love with Mercedes, the girl who was engaged to marry Edmond. Because of their jealousy and envy of Edmond, Danglars and Ferdinand conspired together and wrote a letter accusing Edmond of carrying a letter from Elba to the Bonapartist committee in Paris. During that time period, this could be considered an act of treason. On his wedding day, Edmond was arrested by and taken before one of the King’s prosecutors, Villefort. Villefort believes Edmond’s story that he did not know what was in the letter and is simply delivering it. However, once Villefort reads who the letter is addressed to, he becomes fearful because it is addressed to his (Villefort’s) father who is a supporter of Napoleon. Although Villefort is loyal to the Royalists, he is hiding a secret and using a false name. He is fearful that his friends in power will find out that he is the son of a supporter of Napoleon. He has changed his name from his father’s last name of Noirtier, to Villefort. Because of this, he tells Edmond that he believes him and will straighten the matter out, although it will take him a few hours. Edmond believes him and is led away thinking he is going to a holding area, but is taken away to prison.
Edmond Dantes remained in prison for 14 grueling years. While in prison, he was determined to escape and began digging a tunnel (with a spoon -- seriously) in hopes that it would lead to his escape. As it turned out, the man in the cell next to his was also tunneling his way out and they became friends. His name was Faria. The two met daily and an incredible relationship came to be. Faria taught Edmond history, mathematics, and several different languages. Faria became ill and during his illness told Edmond where to find a buried fortune. When Faria did die his body was placed in a burial sac. Edmond seized the chance of escaping and replaced Faria’s corpse with himself. The guards threw the sack into the sea which helped Edmond to escape.
Edmond was rescued by a passing ship. When he regained his strength, they gave him a job on the ship. During one of the voyages, Edmond recovered the buried treasure and became extremely wealthy. He returned as the mysterious Count of Monte Cristo and dazzled all of Paris with his wealth and social [next page]