The Two Dianas by Alexandre Dumas. Short summary

5 seconds

Gabriel never knew his parents. His nurse tells him that his father is missing and his mother died in childbirth. The young man goes to the royal court to learn about his father’s fate.

1 minute

The novel is set in 16th century France during the reign of Henry II. Raised in the provinces, Gabriel knows nothing of his origins and has never seen his parents. The Nurse promises to tell him everything on the day of his 18th birthday.

When that day arrives, the nurse tells him that her ward belongs to the family of the Earl of Montgomery. His mother died in childbirth and his father disappeared in Paris.

Gabriel wants to go to the royal court to find out about his father. He goes to say goodbye to his friend Diana. She was brought up by a forester and also knew nothing of her parents.

Soon Gabriel learns the truth about his birth. He also learns that 12 years old Diana has been given in marriage to the Duke of Castro by order of the King and will now live at court.

For six years Gabriel serves in the army. He comes to court again, where he meets Diana. Soon after the wedding, her husband is killed. She spent some time in a convent until she learns that she is the illegitimate daughter of the ruler.