Victorien Sardou was a master of the 'well-made play,' and Les diables noirs is a prime example. Written in 1882, it’s a classic drama of secrets and consequences.

The Story

The play follows Monsieur de Trégenec, a respected and wealthy man living a comfortable life in Paris with his wife and daughter. His world is turned upside down by the arrival of Jacques Mérin, a man who knows a dark secret from Trégenec's past. Years ago, to secure his fortune, Trégenec committed a terrible act. Now, Mérin is here, not for revenge, but for something even more complicated: he wants Trégenec to help him in a new, risky scheme. The drama unfolds as Trégenec is trapped between protecting his family's name and being pulled back into a world of crime he thought he’d left behind.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't a simple good-versus-evil story. Sardou makes you feel for Trégenec. You see his genuine love for his family and his horror at his past catching up with him. The 'black devils' of the title aren't monsters; they're the haunting memories and moral compromises that can poison a life. The dialogue is sharp, and the plot mechanics are clever—you can see why Sardou's plays were such hits on the stage. It’s a fascinating look at how one bad decision can echo for decades.

Final Verdict

Perfect for fans of classic drama who enjoy psychological tension over sword fights. If you like the moral dilemmas in stories like Crime and Punishment but prefer the tight structure of a stage play, you’ll find this incredibly satisfying. It’s a short, powerful reminder that the most dangerous ghosts are the ones we make ourselves.