Adolphe, a novel by Benjamin Constant, tells the story of a young, common man named Adolphe who finds himself romantically and emotionally enamored with a woman named Ellénore. Ellénore, however, is betrothed to a much older and more powerful man, who Adolphe must compete against in trying to win her attention and ultimately her heart. What Adolphe doesn’t know is that Ellénore is already in a relationship and can’t be shared.
The novel, originally published in 1807, introduces us to Adolphe, a sixteen year old orphan who is being raised by his aunt, who educates him and encourages him with lofty ideas of grandeur and success. Though he has no title or money, his aunt has fostered in him a confidence and openness that serve him well when he eventually meets a young woman named Ellénore.
Adolphe and Ellénore’s meet while they are vacationing in Switzerland, and instantly fall madly in love. They take long walks and talks, and spend many hours together, experiencing first love and the excitement of the unknown. Their conversations, though brief, illustrate the excitement of youth, exploring ideas and topics that would be unfamiliar to most of their social peers.
Adolphe's love for Ellénore soon develops into an obsession, prompting him to spend more and more time in thought of his beloved. He convinces himself that Ellénore shares in his feeling of unwavering love and he fantasies of the life they will one day live.
The tension between the two lovers grows when Adolphe discovers that Ellénore is in fact betrothed to another man – a much older, more powerful man who is referred to only as “The Marquis”. He discovers that the relationship with Ellénore can never be, despite his passionate love for her. Adolphe begins to battle against the Marquis for the hand of Ellénore, and the battle reaches its climax during an exchange at a ball. The Marquis provides Adolphe with a scathing presumption of his lack of class and stature, and Ellénore reaches a breaking point. In a moment of vulnerability, she reveals the truth of her relationship with the Marquis – a truth that leaves Adolphe heartbroken.
As the novel progresses, Adolphe comes to terms with the fact that he can never have Ellénore’s love, and he begins to take control of his own life. He moves on with his life, learning and finding solace in the world around him. He eventually meets and marries another woman, forming his own family. Though he may never get to be together with the woman who captured his heart, he comes to terms with his love for Ellénore and eventually, his desire for her is replaced with a newfound appreciation for his life, his newfound family and his newfound understanding of the world around him.
Adolphe by Benjamin Constant is a timeless classic that explores the various complex emotions of first love and heartbreak. Through the gripping story of Adolphe and Ellénore, the novel speaks to the idea of how love can influence, shape and change someone’s life and how losing love can be just as impactful. Adolphe's life-altering journey can be read and analyzed in different lights – it is alternately a work of Romance, a psychological exploration of young love, an exploration of society and political power and a reflection on the importance of education. Adolphe is a timeless classic that should be read and studied by anyone looking to explore the nuances of love and human nature.
