A review by saluki
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

5.0

Most people are aware of the story of The Count of Monte Cristo due to the numerous adaptations and even the jokes about it being the number one read book for prisoners today. For me, I'd only experienced the 2002 film starring Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce, as well as the recent television drama Revenge that was also billed as an adaptation. I've been meaning to tackle this very, very long classic for many years and was surprised by how much I loved this book. It's definitely one of my favourite classic reads. I can truly see why it was a major topic of conversation in the 1840's, being serialised over eighteen months until finally published as a bestselling European novel; it could compare with the popularity of modern television dramas and the discussions they inspire.

On the eve of his nuptials, nineteen year-old Edmond Dante, First Mate of the Phaeron, looks forward to a bright future as newly appointed Captain and husband to the love of his life, but finds himself an innocent betrayed when he is arrested on the grounds of treason. Without a fair trial, Dante experiences isolated imprisonment in the dungeons of the Chateau d'If and loses everything; his freedom, family, career and last but not least his love, Mercedes.

So, we get a main revenge plot with many, and I mean many, subplots which are often melodramatic. A few subplots in the middle seemed like random filler scenes but their significance become clear as revenge is enacted by Dantes in his guise as the extraordinarily wealthy and enigmatic Count of Monte Cristo. Dantes alter egos are a thrilling part of the tale and I especially enjoyed his part as the pseudonymous Sinbad the Sailor, the fictional hero of the Middle East who embarks on fantastical voyages, because it seems apt for this former sailor creating a fantastical persona.

Dantes wants the justice he was denied and his betrayers continue to be fuelled by greed, jealousy and social aspirations. They are despicable characters and it's easy to sympathise with Dante and feel he is justified in his actions while looking forward to the spectacular style in which he will contrive their comeuppance and ruin. Conversely, Dante does not forget those who remained loyal to him and he is conflicted when innocents suffer as a result of his manipulations and plotting. For all his clever planning and deceptions, we wonder is it all really worth it?

Edmond Dante is a complex character and throughout the novel he is consumed not only by vengeance but also hope. Does he get his revenge? Does he find love and happiness?

Wait and Hope.