Student Question
In The Count of Monte Cristo, how does Fernand (Count de Morcerf) typically dress?
Quick answer:
Fernand, known as Count de Morcerf, typically dresses in a military style, reflecting his rise from a humble background to a soldier and then a count. His attire often includes military clothes with decorative epaulets, golden threads, and cords, buttoned up to the chin. This reflects his status and authority, which he gained through betrayal. Despite his polished appearance, he is ultimately exposed for his treachery in the novel.
One of the avowed enemies of Edmund Dantes, his rival in love who conspired against him, Ferdinand has risen from being a humble Catalan to a soldier and then a count. So, he would usually wear military style clothes with decorative epaulets with golden thread and, perhaps, a golden cord.
He has gained his wealth by having betrayed Ali Tebelin, Pacha of Janina. Because he has rescued the Pacha's daughter, Haydee, the Count of Monte Cristo learns of Ferdinand's treachery; therefore, he plans to expose the Count de Morcerf. In Chapter 86, Count de Morcerf, who is perceived as an "upstart" by the other members of the Senat of France, enters the chambers, not knowing that an expose of him has been printed in the newspapers. After he enters, he hears the charges and is "completely overwhelmed."
The next day he appears calm,
...and his step firm, his dress particularly nice, and, according to the ancient military costume, buttoned completely up to the chin...He produced the ring, his mark of authority, with which Ali Pacha generally sealed his letters.....
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