Sister Philomène: Analysis of Major Characters
"Sister Philomène: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the complex relationships and emotional struggles of key figures in the narrative. At the center is Marie Gaucher, who becomes Sister Philomène after facing the hardships of being orphaned and subsequently living in a convent orphanage. Her journey is marked by a deep yearning for love and connection, particularly evident in her affection for Barnier, a doctor burdened by the memories of his past love, Romaine. The narrative highlights the impact of loss and sacrifice, as Barnier ultimately succumbs to disease, further complicating Sister Philomène's emotional turmoil.
Céline, Sister Philomène's childhood friend, represents companionship and the shared experiences of the orphanage, though her own fate is tragic as she dies of typhoid. The de Viry family, particularly Madame de Viry and her son Henri, shape Sister Philomène's early life, showcasing social dynamics and the challenges faced by those from less privileged backgrounds. Additional characters, such as Malivoire, the friend of Barnier, and Marguerite, who offers support to young Marie, add layers to the depiction of community and companionship in times of distress. Overall, the analysis provides insight into how love, loss, and duty intertwine within the lives of these characters, reflecting a rich tapestry of human emotion and resilience.
Sister Philomène: Analysis of Major Characters
Authors: Jules de Goncourt and Edmond de Goncourt
First published: Sœur Philomène, 1861 (English translation, 1890)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Paris, France
Plot: Naturalism
Time: Nineteenth century
Marie Gaucher (mah-REE goh-SHAY), who becomes Sister Philomène. Orphaned as a child, she is sent to a convent orphanage. After a period of adjustment, she is led, through her friend Céline, to a state of religious agitation that finally threatens her health. Her aunt is permitted to take her home. After an unhappy time as servant to Henri de Viry, she begins her novitiate to the Sisters of St. Augustine, who send her to work in a hospital. There, she wins the hearts of doctors and sufferers by her compassionate tenderness. She falls in love with Barnier but punishes herself by remaining in the hospital and enduring love's torments until his death.
Barnier (bahr-NYAY), a young doctor loved by Sister Philomène. Haunted by memories of the dead Romaine, his former mistress, he deliberately exposes himself to disease and dies as Sister Philomène is having prayers for unbelievers said for him.
Céline (say-LEEN), Sister Philomène's friend at the orphanage, who later becomes Sister Lawrence. She dies of typhoid.
Madame de Viry (deh vee-REE), the employer of Sister Philomène's aunt, with whom the child Marie goes to live after the death of her parents. When she begins to assume equal footing with Henri de Viry, Madame de Viry sends her away to an orphanage.
Henri de Viry (an-REE), Madame de Viry's son.
Romaine (roh-MEHN), Barnier's former mistress, who had left him for a life of dissipation. Her death leads the grief-stricken Barnier to expose himself to a fatal disease.
Malivoire (mah-lee-VWAHR), a doctor and a friend of Barnier.
Marguerite (mahr-geh-REET), a sister who befriends young Marie at the orphanage.