Twenty years after by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet

Twenty years after by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet

“Twenty Years After” is a historical novel by Alexandre Dumas, co-written with Auguste Maquet. It is the sequel to “The Three Musketeers” and continues the adventures of D’Artagnan and his three friends, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, two decades after the events of the first novel. The story is set against the backdrop of the political turmoil in France and England during the mid-17th century.

Authors: Alexandre Dumas, Auguste Maquet

Publication Date: Serialized between 1845 and 1846

Summary

The novel picks up twenty years after the end of “The Three Musketeers.” The once inseparable friends have drifted apart, each leading different lives. However, they are drawn back together by D’Artagnan, who seeks to reunite them to support the Queen and the royal cause in the face of new political challenges.

Plot Overview

1. Reunion of the Musketeers: D’Artagnan, now a lieutenant in the Musketeers, is tasked by Cardinal Mazarin to find his old friends and bring them back into service. He manages to reunite with Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, each of whom has taken a different path in life.
2. Political Intrigue: The novel is set during the Fronde (a series of civil wars in France) and the English Civil War. The Musketeers find themselves entangled in the political machinations of the time, with Cardinal Mazarin and Queen Anne of Austria playing significant roles.
3. Adventures in France: The Musketeers engage in various adventures, including protecting the young King Louis XIV and battling the rebellious nobles. Their loyalty and bravery are tested as they navigate the treacherous political landscape.
4. Adventures in England: The story shifts to England, where the Musketeers attempt to save King Charles I from execution. Despite their efforts, they are unable to prevent his death, which deeply affects them, especially Athos.
5. Personal Journeys: Each Musketeer faces personal challenges and growth. Athos deals with his son’s involvement in the conflicts, Aramis pursues his ambition for power within the church, Porthos seeks to secure his wealth and social standing, and D’Artagnan remains loyal to his duty as a soldier.
6. Climax and Resolution: The novel concludes with the resolution of several political conflicts, the strengthening of the bond between the Musketeers, and their realization that their friendship and honor are more important than the political causes they serve.

Themes

• Loyalty and Friendship: The novel explores the enduring bond between the Musketeers and their unwavering loyalty to each other and their cause.
• Honor and Duty: The characters grapple with their sense of honor and duty, often placing these values above personal gain.
• Political Turmoil: The story is set against a backdrop of political instability, highlighting the complexities and dangers of navigating power struggles.
• Change and Continuity: The passage of twenty years brings significant changes in the characters’ lives and the political landscape, but some values and relationships remain constant.

Key Characters

• D’Artagnan: The protagonist, now a seasoned lieutenant, who takes on the task of reuniting the Musketeers.
• Athos: The noble and stoic former Musketeer, now living a quiet life, but drawn back into action for the sake of his friends and honor.
• Porthos: The strong and loyal Musketeer, whose desire for wealth and status motivates his return to the group.
• Aramis: The cunning and ambitious Musketeer, now a churchman with political aspirations.
• Cardinal Mazarin: The powerful and manipulative chief minister of France, who seeks to use the Musketeers for his own ends.
• Queen Anne of Austria: The Queen Mother, who relies on the Musketeers to protect her son and navigate the political turmoil.