The Libertine

The Libertine is an 1807 English novel by Charlotte Dacre, written under the pseudonym Rosa Matilda. This was her third novel, published in four parts and collected into a single volume. It follows similar themes to Zofloya around the impact of female desire and libertinism. The Libertine was highly criticized after its publication due to the excess of language, improbable plot and supposedly immoral message. The Libertine follows the journey of Gabrielle after her seduction by a libertine, and the repercussions of his infidelity and their marriage-less relationship. Plot summary Montmorency and his daughter Gabrielle live isolated in the Swiss mountains, away from corrupted society. They live in peace until the Count Angelo D’Abini arrives, requesting shelter. Gabrielle has never met another man before other than her father, who distrusts Angelo. Angelo justifies his motives as honest and is accepted to stay. Still residing in their home weeks later, Gabrielle and Angelo have grown attached to each other but Gabrielle is confused by her feelings. Angelo is attracted to her innocence but doesn’t love her. Gabrielle shares her feelings and is embarrassed and isolates herself. Attracted to her display of innocence, Angelo pursues Gabrielle and asks her to run away with him, which she refuses. Angelo seduces her and Gabrielle mourns her loss of innocence. Angelo leaves but promises he will stay in touch, gifting a gold medallion. Eventually his letters stop. Madam Bertrand lives alone in a cottage nearby. She is concerned about Gabrielle, now physically taken with grief following Angelo's departure. Gabrielle discovers she is pregnant, and cannot conceal it from Montmorency. Blaming himself for exposing Gabrielle to corruption, he is stricken by a melancholic madness and dies.