Chapter 21

Summary

Two visitors come to see Claude Frollo, asking questions about medicine and alchemy. One of the visitors is the King’s physician, Jacques Coictier. The other is named Compère Tourangeau. As Tourangeau and Claude Frollo speak, the priest is impressed by the mannerisms of Tourangeau, who carries himself as if he were someone strong and authoritative. He has many questions about Frollo’s medical ideas, despite the voiced skepticism of his companion, Coictier. In the end, Tourangeau asks to study with Frollo. Then, as he is leaving, he reveals himself to be King Louis XI.

Because of his extensive studies, Claude Frollo has made a name for himself among the scholars. It is, therefore, not surprising that the KingÂ’s physician and his friend, Tourangeau, come to ask the priest some questions about medicine and alchemy. What is surprising is that the friend is really the King of France, who is suffering from an illness. As a result, he wants to study with Frollo and seek his advice.

Jacques Coictier, the physician, does not think highly of Frollo. After listening to some of the explanations of the priest, the emotional and volatile physician calls Frollo a madman. Much of his reaction stems from the jealousy that he feels for Frollo. Despite the protests of Coictier, the King is optimistic about the priest being able to help him.

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