In the bustling city of Paris, Marguerite Gautier, a courtesan, finds herself caught between love and societal judgment. Her life is symbolized by the camellia, beautiful yet cold, reflecting the icy reception she receives from many around her. Despite her attempts to find genuine love, her past and financial struggles lead to a tragic story of sacrifice and heartbreak.

A Chance for Redemption

Once upon a time, Marguerite worked as a needleworker, living a humble life until fate intervened. After a period of convalescence in Bagneres, she encounters a benevolent duke who sees in her the likeness of his late daughter. Moved by this resemblance, the duke introduces Marguerite to Parisian society, offering her a fresh start. Yet, whispers of her past life soon circulate the boulevards, casting a shadow over her reputation. Despite the societal disdain, a few steadfast friends stand by her, understanding her deep yearning for true love and a departure from the shallow excesses of Parisian life. However, her financial woes deepen as gambling debts accumulate, leaving her with little means to pay her creditors.

Love and Sacrifice

The Count de Varville, a new admirer, promises to erase Marguerite’s debts in exchange for her companionship, tempting her with a life free of financial burdens. Just before accepting, she crosses paths with Armand Duval, a man who offers nothing but unwavering affection. Introduced to her through Madame Prudence, her milliner who feigns friendship for financial gain, Armand's simple love initially seems insufficient. At first, Marguerite dismisses his affections, doubting her ability to abandon the comforts she's known for a life of poverty. Persistent in his love, Armand eventually wins her heart, asking her to leave behind her current life for one with him, where peace and fresh air might heal her persistent cough.

A New Beginning

Marguerite, Armand, and her loyal maid Nanine retreat to a quaint cottage in the countryside. Initially, Armand is consumed by doubt, fearing Marguerite’s longing for her former lifestyle. Over time, her sincere devotion reassures him, and they find joy together. The vibrant flowers from their garden replace the cold camellias she wore as a symbol of her former life. Their tranquil existence, however, is short-lived.

Heartfelt Decision

Armand’s father visits, imploring Marguerite to release his son from their relationship, citing her tarnished reputation as a detriment to his family’s honor. Although Marguerite is steadfast in her love, the father reveals that Armand’s sister’s engagement is under threat because of their union. Moved by compassion for the young girl, Marguerite agrees to sever ties with Armand, knowing he would never willingly leave her unless she deceived him. She devises a plan to feign a lack of love for Armand, choosing to disguise her intent to protect his family. Recognizing her sacrifice, Armand’s father promises to reveal the truth to his son after her death, which she believes is imminent.

Deceptive Departure

Unable to face Armand directly with her deception, Marguerite pens a letter claiming disdain for the simple life and a return to de Varville. Upon reading her words, Armand collapses into his father’s arms in despair. He departs the countryside and Paris, disappearing for several weeks as Marguerite resumes her former lifestyle, engulfed in the familiar world of opera and cards, always with a camellia present.

Unending Love

Despite the façade, Marguerite's heart remains with Armand as her health deteriorates. Her cough worsens, and with grim acceptance of her fate, she yearns for a final reunion with Armand. When they eventually meet, Armand, still unaware of her true intentions, assails her honor and that of Count de Varville. In a heated...