Désirée's Baby Questions on L'Abri
Désirée's Baby
What meanings do the names Désirée, La Blanche, and L'Abri hold in the story?
In "Désirée's Baby," names carry symbolic meanings reflecting themes of identity and irony. "Désirée" means "desire," suggesting Armand's initial passion and possibly his hidden wish to conceal his...
Désirée's Baby
Why was there an "air of mystery" at L'Abri three months after Désirée's baby was born in "Désirée's Baby"?
Three months after Désirée's baby was born, an "air of mystery" surrounded L'Abri due to suspicions about the baby's racial heritage. The slaves recognized signs of mixed race in the child, leading...
Désirée's Baby
Why did Madame Valmondé shudder at L'Abri? Does this foreshadow something "wrong" with the baby?
Madame Valmondé shuddered at L'Abri due to its somber and neglected appearance, which is personified as sad and overshadowed by solemn oaks. The absence of a gentle mistress and the oppressive...
Désirée's Baby
What are Armand's motivations, background, and choices at the end of "Désirée's Baby"? Does he have any redeeming...
Armand, a wealthy plantation owner, is motivated by social status and racism. Born in France, he unknowingly has black ancestry, revealed at the story's end. Initially romantic, he marries Désirée...
Désirée's Baby
How does the description of L’Abri from Madame Valmondé’s viewpoint develop the text's mood?
The description of L'Abri from Madame Valmondé's viewpoint establishes a dark, foreboding mood. The plantation is depicted as gloomy and lifeless, with references to death, such as "solemn oaks"...