The Count of Monte Cristo

Chapter XXII 1. “It was cowardly…but it was not criminal” (Dumas, 127). What do you think about this?

2. Do you believe that Caderousse’s offense is “…the only one I have to reproach myself with during the whole of my lifetime, is no doubt the causes of my adversity” (Dumas, 127)?

3. Who said, “Frailty, thy name is woman!” (Dumas, 131)? What is the context for the comment?

4. Why does Caderousse believe that Mercedes has “…crammed so much knowledge into her head…” (Dumas, 132)?

5. What do you think of “’I know what happiness means as I also know what despair means, and I should never play with either of these feelings’” (Dumas, 133).

Chapter XXIII 1. What kind of “delicacy” does the Mayor display (Dumas, 134)?

2. What do you think of boasting (Dumas, 136)? Why do people boast so much?

Chapter XXIV 1. Why is Cocles so happy (Dumas, 139)? What kind of praise do you value the most?

2. What is honor?

3. “’There is nothing like common sense to put courage into a man’” (Dumas, 144)? Do you agree with this?

4. Why is Morrel so “deeply touched” on page 146 (Dumas)? Is there anything more valuable than loyalty in an employee?

5. Find out information about Sinbad the Sailor. Who was he?

Chapter XXV 1. What does it mean when it says, “…one had correspondent only in business, and not friends” (Dumas, 148)?

2. Does “’blood washes out dishonor’” (Dumas, 152)?

3. “’…farewell to kindness, humanity, gratitude…Farewell to all the sentiments which rejoice the heart. I have played the part of Providence in recompensing the good, may the god vengeance now permit me to punish the wicked’” (Dumas, 154). What are your thoughts on this?

Chapter XXVI 1. Would you like to be like Albert in believing that nothing is “…impossible to a full purse and a well‐lined pocketbook…” (Dumas, 156)?

2. Are Albert and Franz brave or stupid to ignore the warning of bandits?

Chapter XXVII 1. Would you like a friendship where you are told “…though I appreciate your friendship, I fear my reputation would suffer if they knew we were on such friendly footing’” (Dumas, 163)?

2. What is the purpose of the tavollette (Dumas, 166)?