Julian's Motivation and Ambitions

Questions and Answers

What is the main reason Julien is ambitious according to the text?

His competence in daily affairs while working for the Marquis de Lamore

His desire to become a teaching assistant at the seminary

The support and help he receives from noble people

His outstanding appearance and ability to remember the Latin version of the Bible (correct)

Why does the text mention Julien's ability to win over the noble son?

To illustrate his capability to build important connections (correct)

To emphasize his dedication to mastering riding and swordsmanship

To showcase his talent in attracting influential individuals

To highlight Julien's ambition to win the favor of noble families

What is Miss Mathilde's assessment of Julian's potential for success?

He relies on women for his success

His success is solely based on his ambition and outstanding ability

He is insincere in his relationships with Madame de Reiner and Miss Mathilde

He can be successful in any era with or without noble people's help (correct)

What was Julian's original motive for wanting to be successful?

To break through the barriers of class Signup and view all the answers

Who played a key role in Julian's first promotion from a carpenter's son to a tutor?

Father Sheran Signup and view all the answers

Why were powerful men important in Julian's life according to the text?

Because they were his only source of promotion Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason behind Julien's ease in receiving affection from his wife?

His wife is not proud of her beauty and has always kept herself safe. Signup and view all the answers

In what way is Madame de Reiner described in comparison to Julien's mother?

She provides spiritual comfort and is compared to a loving mother, similar to Julien's mother. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Julien's relationship with Madame de Reiner hints at an Oedipus-style complex?

Julien feels more secure and comfortable asking naive questions in front of Madame de Reiner. Signup and view all the answers

How does Julien's behavior differ towards Madame de Reiner and Miss Mathilde?

He takes the initiative with Miss Mathilde but stays away from Madame de Reiner. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ambition of Julien

Julien’s ambition is driven by a desire to transcend his humble origins and achieve social status, motivated by a longing for power and respect.

Winning Over the Noble Son

Julien's charm and intelligence enable him to impress and win the favor of the noble son, highlighting his social savvy and tactical prowess in navigating elite circles.

Miss Mathilde's Assessment

Miss Mathilde views Julien as a young man with significant potential, recognizing his intelligence and ambition, which she finds admirable and attractive.

Original Motive for Success

Julien initially seeks success to escape the limitations of his working-class background, with aspirations to elevate his social standing and gain respect.

Key Role in Julien's Promotion

A influential and supportive mentor plays a crucial role in Julien's promotion from the status of a carpenter's son to becoming a tutor, emphasizing the impact of networking and alliances.

Importance of Powerful Men

Powerful men significantly influence Julien's life, providing opportunities and connections that facilitate his rise in social hierarchy and professional success.

Julien's Ease in Receiving Affection

Julien easily receives affection from his wife due to his charm and established social status, which creates an allure and sense of security in their relationship.

Comparison of Madame de Reiner and Julien's Mother

Madame de Reiner is depicted as more refined and sophisticated in comparison to Julien's mother, enhancing the allure of her character and deepening Julien's desire for acceptance in high society.

Oedipus-Style Complex Hint

Julien's relationship with Madame de Reiner reflects an Oedipus complex, as he displays a mix of admiration and subconscious rivalry, paralleling the dynamics between mother figures and their sons.

Behavioral Differences

Julien exhibits a more restrained and calculated demeanor towards Madame de Reiner, contrasting with a more youthful and passionate approach to Miss Mathilde, revealing his strategic manipulation of relationships.

Description

This quiz delves into the motivations of Julian, who desires success, recognition and advancement in society. It examines whether his pursuit of fame is linked to his desire for women or driven by personal ambition.