Point of View

The story is written in first person from the viewpoint of Marie-Joseph-Rose de Tascher de la Pagerie, known in this story as Rose but known historically as Josephine. The perspective is limited to Rose's point of view. Aspects of the story that do not happen within Rose's view are presented as conversations with other people or through letters. The letters are a major part of the story and are an important way of presenting information. For example, it is through a letter that Rose learns of Alexandre's movements during his time in the military. The letters also provide information on the relationships of the characters. For example, while Rose is visiting her parents, she receives letters from her son, Eugene. The letters are written in a child's hand from a child's perspective but clearly present the idea that he misses his mother and is looking for...