Part 1, Chapter 1 Summary

The Immoralist is the story of Michel, a young Frenchman who lives in the last years of the 19th century and whose quest for self-identity ultimately destroys his marriage, career, and wealth. The novel is known for being alarming for its homosexual theme in the time it was written in 1902 but by today's standards the story has little or no shock value. It is, however, an excellent study in the struggle between good and evil and convention and self will as Michel's inner struggles are revealed.

The novel begins with a letter written by a friend of Michel's to the friend's brother stating that he and two other friends named Denis and Daniel have found Michel in North Africa and have been able to speak with him. Michel's state of mind is in question although the friend asks the brother not...