Andy Choo
Character Analysis
The Count of Monte Cristo
“Monte Cristo”
Monte Cristo was the main protagonist of this story. His
real name was Edmond Dantes, but simply used the Count of Monte Cristo as a
handle while in Paris. Monte Cristo was rich beyond belief from finding ancient
roman treasure on the petit island of Monte Cristo. Also, Monte Cristo is a
very religious man, and everything that happens is God’s will.
“”I want what God wants. If you arrive home safely, leave
Paris, leave France and, wherever you are, and as long as you behave honestly…
Then I’ll believe that God has forgiven you and I’ll forgive you also.” –
Dumas, 338.
Characteristics
Monte Cristo was well respected upon society. People often
came to him seeking for favours or advice. He was very intelligent and sneaky
as well. One action that seemed pointless would play a much bigger part of his
plan in future chapters. Monte Cristo knew his enemies well and took small
steps to achieve his goals. He is an amazing linguist, knowing multiple
languages such as French, Greek, Italian, and English.
“No, for I saw the justice of God in Benedetto’s hand, and I
would have considered it a sacrilege to oppose the intentions of Providence.” –
Dumas, 341
Interests
One of Monte Cristo’s interests is travel. By carriage,
horse, or ship, Monte Cristo loves to travel. He has successfully traveled throughout the
world. Another interest of his is the arts. Monte Cristo has spent hundreds of
thousands of francs purchasing paintings and hasn’t missed a single opera since
he stepped foot in Paris.
“We’ll go where the air is pure, where all sounds are
soothing, where, no matter how proud one may be, one feels humble and finds
oneself small—in short, we’ll go to the sea. I love the sea as one loves a
mistress and I long for her when I haven’t seen her for some time.” – Dumas,
346
Goals & Motives
Monte Cristo swore vengeance to the four people that falsely
imprisoned him for eternity, Fernand, Danglers, Caderousse, and Villefort. Monte
Cristo was falsely accused as a bonapartist and was sentenced to a life time in
prison for treason. His life was completely changed and he seeked revenge to
those who framed him.
Dear diary,
Thanks
to Mercedes, I live to see another day. The duel had been called off by Albert
himself, and I know Mercedes did something to change his mind. My plan so far
has been working perfectly; two out of the four guilty parties have been dealt
with, leaving only Villefort and Danglers left. They soon will feel what it’s
like to suffer as I had, to experience what it’s like to be imprisoned for
fourteen straight years. I’ve lost everything that day, they’re lucky I’m only
doing so much to their lives. Who knows,
maybe something may come up and slow me down. However, whatever happens, it’s
God’s will for me and I’ll accept it with open arms.
-Monte Cristo
Albert de Morcef
Albert was the only son of Fernand and Mercedes and was
known as the self proclaimed Viscount de Morcef. His family became rich through
the dark acts done by Albert’s father. Albert
was a brave man, who turns down no challenge, and was very honest with what his
desires and feelings. His optimism further enhances his bravery, as he believes
that he can do anything anyone else has done. Also, Albert had a high respect
for his parent’s wishes and followed those above his own desires.
“I’m young, I’m strong and I believe I’m brave; and since
yesterday I’ve learned what strength ofw ill can do. There are men who have
suffered and who have not only gone on living, but even built a new fortune on
the ruins of their former happiness.” – Dumas, 386
Goals
Albert wished to stay single and live a free bachelor life,
but he also wanted to please his father’s demands to follow through the
arranged marriage. Albert also planned to kill Monte Cristo for revenge to what
he did to his father.
“The most fortunate thing that could happen to me would be
to die for my father, that will save us all.” – Dumas, 367
Motives
Albert despised the woman he was matched up with by his
father, and didn’t want to marry the woman. Mercedes also doesn’t like the
matchup, but Albert still wanted to please his father. Albert felt that Monte
Cristo had no reason to punish Fernand, and wanted revenge.
“I reproached you for revealing my father’s conduct in
Greece, for I believed that, however guilty he may have been, you had no right
to punish him. …but the fisherman Fernand’s betrayal of you, and the
unspeakable punishment it led to.” – Dumas, 384
Dear Diary,
Today
marks the day I become my own man, no longer bound to the name of my imprisoned
father. My father was a criminal and a terrible man as well. After his
imprisonment, I’ve decided to leave everything related to my father and start a
new life elsewhere with my mother. People in this world have suffered greater
losses in this world, and have found a new love for this world. I know that I
can do this as well. A new life begins this day, and it’s a beautiful thought
to think about all there is that could possibly come. I’m a new man, without an
identity, but soon I will discover who I will become.
-Albert
de Morcef