Frou-Frou

Overview

Comedy in five acts by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halevy, first performed at the Gymnase Dramatique, Paris, on 30 October 1869. Written exclusively for the actress Aimee Desclee.

Plot

The play tells the story of Gilberte Brigard, nicknamed "Frou-Frou" (from the rustling sound of silk), a beautiful but frivolous young woman who marries the diplomat M. de Sartorys. After having a child, she abandons her family for the charming rake De Valreas, leaving her child in the care of her sister Louise. The story ends tragically.

Historical Context

The title role became one of the great parts of 19th-century French theater, later performed by Sarah Bernhardt, Helena Modjeska, and Ellen Terry. The French expression "frou-frou" refers to the rustle of silk, evoking fondness for fine clothing and frivolity.

Relevance to Marie

Marie's aunt retells the plot of Frou-Frou on 18 October 1875 (carnet 047), making pointed "applications" — drawing parallels to Marie's own situation. The aunt warns that once married, Marie should not return to Nice because "ce. ne se mariera jamais, et qu'il y aura un roman" — implying Audiffret will remain unmarried and a romantic entanglement would follow. The play's theme of a woman ruined by returning to a former suitor resonates with the aunt's warning.

References in Diary

• First mentioned: 1875-10-18 (carnet 047, para 047.0808)