Bel Ami, Chapter 1 summary

What happens

1. With only three francs remaining, Georges Duroy walks through Paris, resenting prosperous men and recalling violent raids in Africa.
2. He recognizes Forestier, who now works as a journalist and advises him against becoming a riding instructor.
3. Forestier takes him to the newspaper office, where Duroy sees Jacques Rival and Norbert de Varenne.
4. Over beer, Forestier offers help finding newspaper work, invites Duroy to dinner, and lends him money for suitable clothes.
5. At the Folies Bergeres, a brunette openly admires Duroy while Forestier remarks on his appeal to women.
6. After Forestier leaves, Duroy approaches the women again and leaves the hall with the brunette.

In this chapter

What to notice

Forestier treats appearance as a practical requirement for advancement. His loan gives Duroy the means to attend a dinner with useful contacts.

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