There Are Crimes and Crimes: Analysis of Major Characters
"There Are Crimes and Crimes" explores the intricate relationships and moral dilemmas faced by its major characters, primarily focusing on Maurice, a young Parisian playwright. The narrative begins with Maurice's anticipation of success as he prepares for the opening night of his play, promising to marry his mistress, Jeanne, who gifts him a tie and gloves. However, his encounter with Henriette, the mistress of his friend Adolphe, complicates his life, as he finds himself falling in love despite a sense of impending doom.
The plot takes a tragic turn when Maurice's daughter, Marion, dies shortly after his visit, leading to his and Henriette's arrest for murder, although they are exonerated due to lack of evidence. This incident ruins Maurice's career and fractures his relationships, particularly with Henriette, who harbors her own troubled past, including involvement in a fatal abortion. As the story unfolds, Maurice’s journey reflects themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, ultimately leading to his reconciliation with Jeanne and a restoration of his popularity. The characters navigate a web of emotional turmoil, revealing the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of their choices.
There Are Crimes and Crimes: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: August Strindberg
First published: 1899
Genre: Play
Locale: Paris, France
Plot: Symbolic realism
Time: Late nineteenth century
Maurice, a young Parisian playwright. Assured that his play will be a success, he promises to marry Jeanne, his mistress. She gives him a tie and gloves to wear on the opening night. That afternoon, he meets Henriette, the mistress of his friend Adolphe. Although he is falling in love, he has a presentiment of evil. His play is a triumph, but Maurice, instead of going to the celebration party, meets Henriette, who declares her love and throws Jeanne's gifts into the fire. Planning to flee with Henriette, Maurice visits his daughter Marion. After his visit, the child is found dead, and he and Henriette are arrested for murder. They are released for lack of evidence, but Maurice's career is ruined. He and Henriette, now hating each other, separate. After his exoneration, he regains popularity, and he and Jeanne are reunited.
Jeanne, Maurice's mistress, whom he deserts for Henriette but to whom he returns.
Marion, their young daughter. Maurice is suspected of her murder, but she had died of a rare disease.
Henriette, the mistress of Adolphe and later of Maurice. She has assisted in a fatal abortion and has turned to wantonness through dread of her past. She breaks with Maurice and returns to her home.
Adolphe, a painter and Henriette's lover.
The abbé, who brings Maurice to penitence.
Emile, Jeanne's brother.
Madame Catherine, the proprietor of the crêmerie where Maurice first meets Henriette.