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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Chapter 31 – Italy – Sinbad the Sailor
Explanation and Analysis—Identity Crisis:
From Sinbad the Sailor to the Abbé to the Count of Monte Cristo himself, Edmond Dantès assumes a great many names throughout The Count of Monte Cristo. Naming—as a form of masking or revealing oneself—is a major motif in the novel, in service of the pervasive theme of identity. Each new name that the Count chooses comes with an entirely new identity with a new backstory and a new sense of ambition. A reputation precedes each new name that the Count chooses, along with a sense of mystery. In Chapter 31, Franz and one of Sinbad's sailors discuss the character of Sinbad:
‘Come now,’ Franz thought to himself. ‘This man is becoming more and more mysterious, since the stories differ.’ Then he said aloud: ‘What is his name?’
‘When asked, he replies that he is called Sinbad the Sailor. But I suspect this may not be his true name.’
‘Sinbad the Sailor?’
‘Yes.’
‘Where does this gentleman live?’
‘At sea.’
‘What country does he come from?’
‘I don’t know.’
‘Have you seen him?’
‘A few times.’
‘What is he like?’
‘Your Excellency can judge for himself.’
Related Themes:
Chapter 116 – The Pardon
Explanation and Analysis—Identity Crisis:
From Sinbad the Sailor to the Abbé to the Count of Monte Cristo himself, Edmond Dantès assumes a great many names throughout The Count of Monte Cristo. Naming—as a form of masking or revealing oneself—is a major motif in the novel, in service of the pervasive theme of identity. Each new name that the Count chooses comes with an entirely new identity with a new backstory and a new sense of ambition. A reputation precedes each new name that the Count chooses, along with a sense of mystery. In Chapter 31, Franz and one of Sinbad's sailors discuss the character of Sinbad:
Unlock with LitCharts A+‘Come now,’ Franz thought to himself. ‘This man is becoming more and more mysterious, since the stories differ.’ Then he said aloud: ‘What is his name?’
‘When asked, he replies that he is called Sinbad the Sailor. But I suspect this may not be his true name.’
‘Sinbad the Sailor?’
‘Yes.’
‘Where does this gentleman live?’
‘At sea.’
‘What country does he come from?’
‘I don’t know.’
‘Have you seen him?’
‘A few times.’
‘What is he like?’
‘Your Excellency can judge for himself.’
Related Themes:
