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“Bertrande’s decision to expose Arnaud as an impostor was both selfish and foolish” Throughout the Novel “The Wife of Martin Guerre” by Janet Lewis, the decision made by Bertrande to expose Arnaud as Martin’s impostor was neither selfish nor foolish on her behalf, as it was understandable in the context of the novel’s time and culture. As Bertrande becomes more aware that the returned Martin is an impostor she, in turn, becomes distanced from Martin’s sisters, the priest and the townsfolk as she is determined to expose the awful truth. Those around her see this decision as very foolish and feel it carries a sense of betrayal. Although the impostor’s return has created security and prosperity, Bertrande feels that she has no option other than to expose Arnaud so she can maintain a personal sense of justice and morality. Whilst this can be seen as foolish and selfish, it is also common sense and moral a decision. Bertrande was a very loyal and hard working housewife within this patriarchal household. Even after Martin so cruelly abandoned his wife and child, Bertrande remained strong, maintaining the care of their son and helping run the domestic life of the Guerre household herself. Throughout the 8 long solitary years she held her life and her son Sanxi’s, together. When Martin imposts, Bertrande is aware and is uncertain if Martin is genuine “He was a stockier figure, broader in the shoulders, developed, mature...” This first realisation is reinforced when Martin begs for Bertrande’s forgiveness and promises that he will never again leave her.
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