Romance of the Forest

Throughout Romance of the Forest, it is apparent that every character is wearing a "mask" of sorts. Adeline at first appears weak, but it becomes clear, especially through her soliloquy about her family, that she is one of the strongest characters within the story. Madame de la Motte appears hospitable and warm at first, but quickly turns cold and jealous without reason. However, I think the most interesting “mask” is that of Pierre de la Motte. When we are first introduced to him, he seems to be somewhat protective of his family. He alone walks to the house where he finds Adeline and becomes a "hero" of sorts to her. However, as the story continues, we realize that he is hiding from the French government. In a way, he becomes somewhat of an anti-hero. We are inclined to sympathize with him, despite the fact that he has obviously done something to get himself into the situation.  His one concern is his own safety, and even jeopardizes the safety of others until he knows that he will be safe, such as when the Marquis enters the story.  La Motte seems to hide until he feels that it is okay to re-enter the room, then again puts on a “mask” of hospitality, acting as though he were the owner of the abbey. La Motte is either fleeing and frightened, or dominating and confident. He covers his fears by overcompensating for his position within his family.