Désirée's Background

"Désirée's Baby" opens with a brief history of the foundling, Désirée, who was adopted by the Valmonde family after they found her by the side of the road. The Valmondes were childless, and they took in the toddler and raised her as their own child. When Désirée becomes a young woman, her beauty attracts the attention of Armand Aubigny, a neighboring plantation owner and bearer of one of the finest names in Louisiana. Although Désirée's father reminds Armand that Désirée's heritage is unknown, Armand says that doesn't matter, that he will give her a new name.

Birth Brings Happiness

After their marriage, Désirée gives birth to a son. One day Madame Valmonde comes to visit. When she first...