Villette Chapter 19 - The Cleopatra Part 2

In which the narrator, seated before a grand yet gaudy painting of Cleopatra, encounters the stringent Professor Paul Emanuel, whose imperious manner dictates her movements and companions within the art gallery. Amidst their exchange on courage, duty, and taste, observations of other visitors and a subsequent meeting with the amiable Dr. John offer a refreshing counterbalance to the professor’s austere presence.