Who Gabriel Lajeunesse is
Gabriel Lajeunesse belongs to the peaceful Acadian village of Grand-Pré, where his father, Basil, works as the blacksmith. He and Evangeline grow up together, and the poem shows him helping her while Basil watches over them both.
Their love is part of the village's familiar life, supported by friendship between their fathers. Before exile breaks that life apart, Gabriel is promised to Evangeline at a feast in her father's house.
Gabriel Lajeunesse and the others in the story
Gabriel's father, Basil Lajeunesse, is an old friend of Benedict Bellefontaine, Evangeline's father. Both families welcome the match, and Father Felician blesses the young people at their betrothal. Leblanc the notary draws up the marriage contract while neighbors gather to celebrate.
How Gabriel Lajeunesse changes
The British expulsion changes Gabriel's place in the story from a familiar companion to an absent beloved. He is put aboard one ship while Evangeline is placed on another, separating them amid the confusion. As the scattered Acadians seek new homes, Evangeline follows reports of Gabriel from place to place.
Questions
Who is Gabriel Lajeunesse's father?
His father is Basil Lajeunesse, the village blacksmith and a friend of Evangeline's father.
Is Gabriel Lajeunesse married to Evangeline?
Gabriel is betrothed to Evangeline before the expulsion separates them. Their families celebrate the promised marriage at Benedict's house.
Why does Evangeline search for Gabriel?
She searches because exile separates her from the man she loves and intends to marry. Her devotion keeps her following news of him despite years apart.