Amidst the opulent yet tumultuous court of Henry II of France, the noble circles are steeped in both romantic and political intrigue. These circles include those loyal to the queen, who is in conflict with Henry due to his reliance on the advice of Diane de Poitiers, a seasoned duchess and former mistress to Henry's father. Adding complexity to the situation is the group led by Princess Mary, Queen of Scotland and wife of the dauphin, whose beauty and intellect command admiration.

Arrival of Madame de Chartres

Into this tapestry of power struggles enters Madame de Chartres, accompanied by her stunning daughter, both intent on securing a prestigious marriage, ideally to a prince with royal lineage. Yet, the intricate web of court intrigues poses substantial obstacles to achieving such an illustrious union. Ultimately, alliances with monsieur de Monpensier, the chevalier de Guise, or the Prince de Clèves are the most viable options, though each comes with significant challenges. The court factions, wary of losing power, resist any changes to their delicate balance.

A Marriage of Duty

Ultimately, Madame de Chartres arranges a marriage between her daughter and the Prince de Clèves. Despite the prince's deep affection for his new bride, he senses her love is more dutiful than passionate. Though she assures him of her commitment and willingness to foster affection, he yearns for a more ardent connection. The marriage, celebrated with grandeur at the Louvre, is graced by the presence of the king and queen.

Maintaining a Spotless Reputation

Within a court known for its infidelities, the Princess de Clèves stands out for her unsullied reputation, thanks in large part to her mother's guidance and her own dispassionate view of romantic entanglements. On her deathbed, Madame de Chartres receives confessions from her daughter, indicative of the princess's resolve to remain faithful. These unusual mother-daughter discussions reveal the princess's lack of romantic inclinations outside her marriage.

The Enigmatic Duke de Nemours

At a grand court ball celebrating a royal upcoming marriage, the Duke de Nemours makes a striking entrance, captivating the attention of all, including the Princess de Clèves, who has never met him. Despite the English Queen Elizabeth's expressed interest in him as a potential suitor, the duke chooses to remain in France, drawn irresistibly to the princess. Though the French king urges him to consider Elizabeth, Nemours is undaunted, staying close to the object of his affections. The princess, committed to her marriage, conceals her feelings from the world, including from the oblivious duke.

A Hidden Love

During an encounter in the Queen Dauphine's apartments, the princess observes Nemours subtly taking a miniature portrait of her. Despite having the chance to stop him, she remains silent. Later, when the duke is injured during a tournament, her visible distress does not go unnoticed, signaling to the court their growing attachment.

A Confession of the Heart

Faced with her burgeoning emotions, the Princess de Clèves entreats her husband to leave Paris temporarily. Retreating to the countryside, she bravely confesses her feelings for another man to her husband, earning his admiration for her honesty. Though she withholds the identity of her beloved, the Prince de Clèves suspects one of three men, including the duke, yet lacks proof. Unbeknownst to them, Nemours secretly overhears this confession, hiding nearby.

Jealousy and Strain

Time passes, and the princess inadvertently reveals her love for Nemours to her husband. The Prince de Clèves grapples with jealousy, but her transparency and visible efforts to repress her affection prevent him from acting rashly. Nonetheless, he occasionally accuses her of being unjust by harboring feelings for another.

An Escape...