ABSTRACT
Alexis Piron makes in his depiction of the sons an interesting comment on the question of nature versus nurture in the matter of character development. They have quite distinct characters, as outlined in the remark by Pasquin quoted above, yet they share certain traits, chief among which are a lack of respect for their father and an obsession with money. Piron makes it clear to one in the first scene that these characteristics are a result of Géronte's indulgence. Piron uses other means to ensure our disapproval and dislike of the sons. When in Act II Géronte returns from his mission to consult them about one of them marrying Angélique, he has not seen them, but knows that the three are dining together at the house of the youngest brother, Eraste. Despite Géronte's excuses on their behalf, Chrisalde guesses that he has been refused entry.
