In The Scarlet Pimpernel by Emma Orczy, an English baronet named Sir Percy Blakeney secretly operates as the Scarlet Pimpernel, rescuing French aristocrats from the horrors of the Reign of Terror. Percy’s wife, Marguerite, inadvertently betrays him, leading to a suspenseful chase across France as she attempts to save him and restore their love. The novel contains scenes some may interpret as anti-Semitic.

Emma Orczy's The Scarlet Pimpernel is praised for its thrilling plot and captivating blend of adventure and romance. Readers appreciate the vivid historical setting and dynamic characters. However, some criticize the pacing as uneven and find certain elements outdated. Overall, it remains a beloved classic excelling in suspense and escapism.

A reader who enjoys The Scarlet Pimpernel by Emma Orczy likely appreciates historical adventure and romance. Fans of The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas and A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens would enjoy the blend of swashbuckling heroism and suspense in the backdrop of the French Revolution.

Adventurous / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Romantic / Inspirational

- The Scarlet Pimpernel was initially rejected by publishers, leading Emma Orczy and her husband to adapt it into a successful play before it was published as a novel.
- The term "Scarlet Pimpernel" has entered the English language to describe a daring, elusive person who excels at disguise and evasion.
- Emma Orczy's The Scarlet Pimpernel is often credited with popularizing the "hero with a secret identity" trope, which later influenced characters like Zorro and Batman.

**Sir Percy Blakeney**  
A wealthy and seemingly superficial young man known for his charm and good looks, who is secretly leading a daring double life.

**Marguerite St Just**  
A brilliant and beautiful French actress married to Sir Percy, who is deeply entwined in social and personal challenges during the turbulent French Revolution.

**Chauvelin**  
A clever and foxlike French diplomat and spy, who is determined to capture the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel despite his ruthless methods.

**Sir Andrew Ffoulkes**  
A loyal member of the League of the Scarlet Pimpernel, who remains level-headed and is romantically involved with Suzanne de Tournay.

**Lord Antony Dewhurst**  
A dashing and lively aristocrat within the League, driven by the excitement of aiding the Scarlet Pimpernel's missions.

**Mr. Jellyband and Sally**  
The affable and respected innkeeper of The Fisherman’s Rest and his charming daughter, who host the League's members.

**Armand St Just**  
A young idealist with revolutionary ties, whose loyalty and actions become central to the unfolding drama.

**Suzanne de Tournay**  
A youthful French aristocrat rescued from peril, whose budding romance with Sir Andrew offers a subplot of hope amid chaos.

**Comtesse de Tournay**  
A courageous and resilient French noblewoman whose interaction with Marguerite highlights the tensions of the era.

**Vicomte de Tournay**  
The spirited young French noble determined to uphold his family’s honor amidst the French Revolutionary turmoil.

**Sergeant Bibot**  
A boastful Parisian guard whose confidence is ironically undermined by the very man he seeks to catch.

**Benjamin Rosenbaum**  
A Jewish character serving a pivotal but understated role, entangled in the machinations of both sides of the conflict.

Emma Orczy

Adult

Novel

The Scarlet Pimpernel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Scarlet Pimpernel Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Scarlet Pimpernel Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-9

The Scarlet Pimpernel Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-19

The Scarlet Pimpernel Chapters 10-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-31

The Scarlet Pimpernel Chapters 20-31 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Scarlet Pimpernel Character Analysis

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Themes

The Scarlet Pimpernel Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Scarlet Pimpernel Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Scarlet Pimpernel Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Scarlet Pimpernel Essay Topics

The Scarlet Pimpernel Teaching Unit

Introduction

The Scarlet Pimpernel Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

The Scarlet Pimpernel Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

The Scarlet Pimpernel Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

The Scarlet Pimpernel Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

The Scarlet Pimpernel Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

The Scarlet Pimpernel Activities

Essay Questions

The Scarlet Pimpernel Essay Questions

Exam Questions

The Scarlet Pimpernel Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

The Scarlet Pimpernel Exam Answer Key

The Scarlet Pimpernel

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Scarlet Pimpernel?

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Book Details