Manhattan Transfer Lesson Plan

While trying to get work from Madame Rigaud, Emile says, "History and literature teach us that there are friendships, that there sometimes comes love that is worthy of confidence..." (98). Madame Rigaud scoffs. "History and literature!...A lot of good that'll do us" (98). How does this passage develop the themes of the work?

This passage primarily develops the theme of the indifference of history. While Emile sentimentalizes the study of literature and history as a practice that gives meaning to one's life by offering connection and insight, Madame Rigaud views both as irrelevant to the immediate, material needs she has as a businesswoman. Functionally, Emile agrees...