Comte Lambertye

Research Status: Basic Last Updated: 2025-07-05 Diary Coverage: Up to 1874-02-12

Identity

A count who makes Marie uncomfortable with his bold staring and apparent disrespect for her family's reduced social position.

Diary References

1874

• February 12: Marie thinks she sees him near the public garden and almost faints from embarrassment. She's furious at his "impudent looks" and "impudent, impolite, coarse smile." She feels he stares because he sees their diminished social role and doesn't seek proper introduction. Calls him grossly inappropriate.

Context

• French aristocrat living in or visiting Nice
• Does not seek formal introduction despite apparent interest
• Represents social humiliation for Marie's family
• Marie feels he takes liberties because of their reduced circumstances
• Part of the social dynamic that causes Marie great anxiety about her family's position
• Marie wishes to have him beaten along with other men who slight her