The Count of Monte Cristo - Chapter 1 – Marseilles: The Arrival

The year is 1815. A ship, the Pharaon, returns home to Marseilles carrying news of both triumph and tragedy. Young Edmond Dantès proves himself a capable leader after the death of Captain Leclere, earning the admiration of his employer, Morrel. But as quickly as opportunity rises, so too does envy—particularly from Danglars, whose jealousy sets the stage for the trials to come.

This opening chapter introduces Edmond’s promise of success, the devotion to his father and fiancée, and the first shadows of betrayal.