Heroism In The Scarlet Pimpernel

The limited point of view which The Scarlet Pimpernel employs is crucial for the protection of Percy’s identity and the perception of his heroism. The majority of the novel takes place in a limited point of view from Marguerite Blakeney’s perspective, and the description of Percy comes from her opinion of him, which is a sharp contrast to the descriptions of the Scarlet Pimpernel. While Marguerite regards the Scarlet Pimpernel as a brave and clever hero, she views her husband as unintelligent and dull, therefore removing from most people’s minds any suspicion of his being the Scarlet Pimpernel and causing the reveal of his identity to be more astounding than if Percy himself was the protagonist. Furthermore, Percy’s is not the protagonist even when he is the one leading the rescues, and this causes suspense because even though he has a situation under control, it seems that Chauvelin and his men have actually won. Percy appears a more impressive hero because he never reveals his plans until after the rescue is complete.

Upon discovering her husband’s true identity and recognizing the gravity of the situation she has placed him in, Lady Blakeney becomes a sympathetic character. Previously, she was quite unlikable due to her blatant dislike for her husband and the cold pride she openly displays. It is not until

Throughout the novel, almost every situation is seen from her perspective. This allows for scenarios such as the reveal of the Scarlet Pimpernel’s identity to be more impactful because the reader sees and feels the emotions of Marguerite as she realizes that she has placed her husband in danger. Furthermore, Marguerite’s role as the novel’s protagonist adds suspense to scenes.For example, when Chauvelin and Percy face each other in the “Chat Gris”, the scenario is scene through the eyes of Marguerite, who is hiding in another room, and the fear she feels sets the tone for the