Citation: Dumas, A. (1997). Les trois mousquetaires (M. G. Vogel, Abr. ed.) (N. C. Lavigne, Trans.). Editions ABC. (Original work published 1844).
Les trois mousquetaires was originally written as an historical fiction and adventure novel, following the story of d’Artagnan, a young man who travels to Paris to join the Musketeers, befriending three existing members of the elite guard. The group of fast friends soon find themselves embroiled in the political machinations of the powerful Cardinal Richelieu, who seeks to undermine the Queen of France. Will “good” conquer evil in the end? (Spoiler: yes).
This abridged version of the classic tale will appeal to those who love heroic tales of chivalry, romance, and victory over murderous villains. Although the story is a classic and provides insights into political opinion in France at the time of publication, the characters are not well-developed or sympathetic, and fall into insidious gender stereotypes that portray the courageous male heroes as innocent victims to the charms of beautiful, but evil, women.