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The Count of Monte Cristo, Chapter 3 summary

Chapter 3 of 117 · Volume 1 · 15 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 3, Mercédès refuses Fernand’s proposal and reunites with Edmond Dantès, whose return sharpens her cousin’s jealousy despite her warning against violence. As the couple announces plans for a prompt wedding, Danglars studies Fernand’s distress and finds an idea for interfering when Edmond mentions a journey to Paris.

What happens

  1. Mercédès rejects her cousin Fernand and insists that she loves only Edmond Dantès.
  2. Edmond arrives, and Mercédès forces Fernand to shake his hand by warning that harm to Edmond means her own death.
  3. Fernand flees the house and joins Caderousse and Danglars, who question and provoke him about his rejection.
  4. Seeing the lovers together nearly drives Fernand to attack, but Mercédès’ warning stops him.
  5. Edmond invites the men to a wedding planned within two days and explains his need to visit Paris.
  6. Danglars connects the journey with a letter from the grand marshal and privately forms an idea against Edmond.

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In this chapter

Edmond DantèsDanglarsMercédès

What to notice

Mercédès’s firm choice removes Fernand’s hope of marriage. It explains both the joy of Edmond’s arrival and the jealousy that Danglars tries to exploit.

Quick check

Why does Edmond say he needs to visit Paris?

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