I.
OVERVIEW Beyond his captivating storytelling, Malot often addresses social
1. Author
1.1. Personal life
Hector-Henri Malot (Hector Malot) (20 May 1830 – 18 July 1907)
was a French writer born in La Bouille, Seine-Maritime. He studied
law in Rouen and Paris, but eventually, literature became his passion.
He worked as a dramatic critic for Lloyd Francais and as a literary
critic for L'Opinion Nationale.[1]
He announced his retirement as an author of fiction in 1895, but in
1896 he returned with the novel L'amour Dominateur and the
account of his literary life Le Roman de mes Romans (The Novel of
my Novels).
He died in Fontenay-sous-Bois in 1907.
1.2. Writing career
His first book, published in 1859, was Les Amants. In total Malot
wrote over 70 books. By far his most famous book is Sans Famille
(Nobody's Boy, 1878), which deals with the travels of the young
orphan Remi, who is sold to the street musician Vitalis at age 8. Sans
Famille gained fame as a children's book, though it was not
originally intended as such.
Hector Malot's work is a melodrama, a romantic tragedy with a
gentle style, poetic language, and sincerity. He intertwines emotions
with his pen and uses his feelings to captivate readers. Malot's world
is a bygone world, the serene realm of his storytelling stretches into a
romantic past; his prose is luminous, his observational mind is acute,
and his understanding of children is thorough.
issues, particularly the plight of the poor and the marginalized. He is
also known for his vivid descriptions of nature and his ability to
create engaging characters.
Despite his talent, Malot's fame outside of France does not match
that of some of his contemporaries like Victor Hugo. One possible
reason for this is that Malot's novels are not as fantastical or
adventurous as those of his contemporaries, but rather focus on
realistic portrayals of everyday life in 19th-century France.
2. About “Nobody’s Boy”
2.1. Context
- "Nobody's Boy" is the English title of the French novel "Sans
Famille". The novel was written by Hector Malot and published
in 1878. During the 1870s, France was rebuilding and renewing
from the shadows of the Franco-Prussian War (chiến tranh pháp
phổ) and the Paris Commune Upheaval (Sự kiện công xã Paris).
Innovations (eg: electricity) and artistic movements (eg:
Impressionism: trường phái ấn tượng) were clear hints of a
vibrant future that awaited France.
- Malot lấy cảm hứng từ những câu chuyện về những đứa trẻ mồ
côi, lang thang trên đường phố Paris mà ông gặp gỡ trong thời
gian làm báo. Ông muốn thể hiện sự đồng cảm với những mảnh
đời bất hạnh này và kêu gọi sự quan tâm của xã hội đối với họ.
- Malot cũng muốn phản ánh thực trạng xã hội Pháp thời bấy giờ,
với sự bất công, áp bức và sự phân biệt đối xử giữa các tầng lớp
quan tâm của xã hội đối với họ.
- It is categorized (phân loại) as children's literature, specifically
adventure fiction (phiêu lưu viễn tưởng)
 2.2. Achievements
- The novel has remained popular for over a century since its
publication in 1878. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal
themes of friendship and the search for belonging, which
continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
- The influence (ảnh hưởng) of the novel extends beyond
literature, with numerous adaptations in various media forms,
including television series, radio dramas, stage plays, and films.
2.3. Characters
- Main Characters:
● Remi: The protagonist, a kind and resilient young
orphan who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and
adventure.
● Vitalis: An elderly artist who takes Remi under his wing
and teaches him the tricks of the trade. He's gruff but
ultimately cares for Remi.
● Mattia: A fellow orphan who becomes Remi’s friend and
companion during their travel
-Other Notable Characters:
● Mrs. Barberin: Remi's adoptive mother in the beginning,
a kind and loving woman who raised him as her own.
● Mrs. Milligan: A wealthy woman who takes an interest
in Remi and supports his musical talents.
● Garofoli: A cruel showman who exploits Remi for his
gain.
● The Acquin family: A struggling family Remi befriends
during his travels, becoming a source of support and
connection.
● The Driscoll family: The family that kidnapped Remi
from his real family
● Joli - Coeur: a monkey in Vitalis’ troupe
● Capi: a dog in Vitalis’ troupe, Remi’s loyal companion
● Zerbino & Dulcie
2.4. Short Summary
Rémi is an orphan and he is the main character of the novel. He
was brought up by his foster mother Barberin. Unfortunately,
when he turned 8, his adoptive father sold him to Vitalis, a
roaming street artist, and he joined their street tour with a
monkey and three dogs. Their small troupe roamed on the roads
of France. Later, Vitas got sick and died in the cold winter. Rémi
continued his journey and finally, he found his real mother in a
noble family in England.
Throughout his travels, Remi learns important life lessons about
friendship, loyalty, and perseverance.(kiên trì) He forms close bonds
with his animal companions and encounters both kind-hearted
individuals who offer him help and support, as well as those who
seek to exploit him (lợi dụng). Encountering different characters and
experiences ultimately dawns on Remi the true meaning of family.
II. STORY ANALYSIS
1. Structure (Plot Orders)
- “Nobody’s Boy” follows a traditional linear plot structure,
chronological order
● Exposition:
Settings: The late 1800s in France in "Nobody's Boy" are
full of social and economic upheaval after the French
Revolution. Orphans like Rémi face a lack of love and
decent shelter, and face poverty and injustice due to class
division. Xã hội Pháp là xã hội đồng tiền những người có
quyền, có tiền luôn đứng trên đầu mọi người, bóp méo cả
pháp luật như lúc viên cảnh sát bắt cụ Vitalis. Ở đó là một xã
hội, con người bị cái khổ sở làm lu mờ đi sự quyết tâm vươn
lên, họ chỉ biết làm lụng để kiếm cái miếng ăn qua ngày như
chú bé Remi nói: “Má có biết lịch sử là cái gì! Má sinh ra ở
 Chavanon thì má lại chết ở đấy thôi. Trí óc của má không hề
vượt ra quá tầm con mắt của má. Và đối với con mắt của má
thì vũ trụ nằm lọt trong cái vành chân trời trông từ trên
chóp núi Audouze.” (I had not heard this story before. Who
would have told me? Not Mother Barberin, surely! She did
not know anything about it. She was born at Chavanon, and
would probably die there. Her mind had never traveled
farther than her eyes.)
Characters & Conflict: The story begins with the
introduction of Remi, an orphan living with the Barberins.
Remi discovered that the Barberins he had lived with for the
past 8 years were not his biological parents and he was about
to leave his beloved mother.
● Rising Action: Remi's separation from the Barberins and his
journey with Signor Vitalis constitute the rising action.
These events propel Remi into a series of adventures and
challenges as he travels across France.
● Climax: The climax occurs when Remi learns the truth
about his origins and biological family. This pivotal moment
represents the peak of tension and revelation in the story.
● Falling Action: Following the climax, there may be a brief
period of falling action where Remi grapples with the
emotional aftermath of his discoveries and resolves any
remaining conflicts or tensions.
● Resolution: The resolution of "Nobody's Boy" involves
Remi finding a sense of closure and acceptance, whether
through reuniting with his biological family or finding a new
sense of belonging elsewhere.
2. Point of view (Narrator)
Không gia đình được kể theo ngôi thứ nhất, trên cương vị là một
người trưởng thành, từng trải nhưng cũng đan xen sự hồn nhiên của
Rêmi những năm 8, 9 tuổi. This narrative perspective allows the
reader to gain insights into the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of
the protagonist, Remi. The omniscient narrator has access to the
inner workings of the character's mind, providing a thorough
understanding of the events and interactions unfolding in the
narrative.
3. Tone of voice
The tone of "Nobody's Boy" can be described as empathetic,
poignant, and reflective. Throughout the novel, Hector Malot
employs compassion and empathy towards Remi's plight as an
orphan seeking love, acceptance, and belonging in a world that often
proves harsh and unforgiving. Additionally, the tone has a sense of
poignancy, particularly as Remi encounters various hardships and
faces moments of uncertainty and adversity.
III. CHARACTERS ANALYSIS (Means of revealing,
Character’s role, Type of character, Type of conflict)
1. Remi
- Words and actions:
● From the beginning of the novel, Rémi demonstrates
resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Despite
being abandoned multiple times and facing numerous
hardships, he remains determined to survive and find his
place in the world.
● Rémi also exhibits compassion and empathy towards others,
particularly those who are marginalized or in need. Whether
it's caring for animals, helping fellow travelers, or forming
friendships with people from different backgrounds, Rémi's
actions reflect his innate kindness and empathy.
● Despite his young age, Rémi displays remarkable bravery in
confronting danger and standing up for himself and others.
 His willingness to take risks and venture into the unknown
underscores his determination to forge his path in life.
● As Rémi travels and encounters various people and
experiences, he undergoes significant growth and self-
discovery. He learns valuable lessons about love, friendship,
loyalty, and the importance of family. His words and actions
reflect his evolving understanding of the world and his place
in it.
- Physical descriptions:
● Rémi is described as a young boy, suggesting his age to be
around eight years old at the beginning of the story.
● He has blond hair, blue eyes with slim build
- Thoughts/inner feelings:
● From the beginning of the story, Rémi grapples with feelings
of loneliness and a deep longing for familial connection. As
an orphan without a known family, he yearns for a sense of
belonging and seeks to uncover his true identity.
● Rémi's inner thoughts are preoccupied with questions of
identity and self-discovery. He grapples with existential
questions about who he is and where he comes from, seeking
to reconcile his past with his present circumstances.
● Despite the hardships he endures, Rémi's inner thoughts
often express gratitude and appreciation for the kindness and
support he receives from others along his journey. He
recognizes the value of friendship, love, and human
connection in sustaining him through difficult times. Rémi
also maintains a sense of hope and optimism, believing that
he will eventually find a place where he belongs and
discover his true identity. His inner thoughts reveal his
optimism for the future, even in the face of adversity.
● Another notable trait of Remi, which can be inferred from
his inner thoughts, is remarkable resilience and
determination. They reflect his unwavering resolve to
persevere and overcome obstacles in pursuit of his goals.
- Type of character:
● In terms of development, Remi is a dynamic character. At
the beginning of the story, Rémi is depicted as a vulnerable
orphan, longing for familial connection and struggling to
find his place in the world. However, as the narrative
unfolds, Rémi experiences personal growth and maturity
through his various experiences and challenges. He learns
valuable lessons about resilience, compassion, and the
importance of human connection, which shape his character
development. Throughout the novel, Rémi's relationships
with other characters evolve and change, further highlighting
his dynamic nature. From his initial bond with Mrs. Barberin
to his friendships with various companions he meets along
his journey, Rémi's interactions with others shape his growth
and development as a character.
● In terms of personality, Remi is a round character
2. Vitalis
- Means of revealing: Người hát dạo, đã mua lại Rémi từ bố nuôi
Jérôme Barberin của cậu. Ông đã dạy học cũng như kinh nghiệm
sống cho Rémi khi cả hai đi lưu diễn khắp nước Pháp. Ông là
người Ý và đã từng có thời huy hoàng lúc còn trẻ. Ông xem
Rémi như con trai mình cũng như Rémi xem ông là người cha vĩ
đại mà cậu hằng mong muốn. Sau cùng, ông đã qua đời trong
cảnh lang thang giữa mùa đông lạnh giá.
Cụ vốn là một người đức cao trọng vọng, từng đứng trên bậc cao
nhất của nấc thang xã hội đương thời; nhưng sau này bị rơi xuống
tận đáy xã hội, phải làm nghề xiếc chó rong sống qua ngày. Cụ đã
gắng hết sức, chịu không biết bao nhiêu khổ cực, chịu cái đói, cái
nghèo. Sức lực cậu bị bào mòn dần bởi cuộc sống đầy rẫy những bộn
bề, khắc nghiệt. Để rồi đến một ngày, cụ đã chết, chết vì không tin
vào lòng tốt của con người, chết bên đường, chết trong cái đói, cái
nghèo trong khi chỉ cần với tay ra gõ cửa thôi, người ta sẵn sàng cứu
cụ.
- Character description: Long ringlets fell to his shoulders and
he wore a tall gray hat ornamented with green and red
feathers. A sheepskin, the woolly side turned inside, was
fastened around his body. There were no sleeves to the skin,
but through two large holes, cut beneath the shoulders, his
arms were thrust, covered with velvet sleeves that had once
been blue. Woolen gaiters reached up to his knees, and to
hold them in place a ribbon was interlaced several times
round his legs. He sat with his elbow resting on his crossed
knees. I had never seen a living person with such a quiet
calm attitude. He looked to me like one of the saints in our
Church. Lying beside him were three dogs—a white spaniel,
a black spaniel, and a pretty little gray dog with a sharp, cute
little look. The white spaniel wore a policeman's old helmet,
which was fastened under its chin with a leather strap.
- Character role:
● Guardian/Mentor: Vitalis provides Remi with a home,
protection, and education. He teaches Remi music, reading,
and life lessons
● Companion: Vitalis travels and performs with Remi, forming
a bond that goes beyond teacher and student
● Catalyst: Vitalis’ past and hidden identity become a driving
force of the story, including Remi’s search for his family
- Type of character: Vitalis can be considered as a dynamic,
round character.
Vitalis can be seen as a round character due to his multifaceted
nature and the development he undergoes throughout the story. He
exhibits depth, evolving emotions, and experiences that shape his
personality. His past, motivations, and interactions with other
characters contribute to his complexity.
However, there are also aspects of Vitalis that align with flat
character traits. He serves certain roles within the narrative that are
consistent and predictable, without significant growth or change in
some aspects of his character. These traits might include his
steadfastness in caring for Remi, his determination to survive, and
his mentorship role.
Ultimately, Vitalis is a dynamic character with both round and flat
qualities, making him an integral and interesting part of the story.
- Type of conflict:
● Internal conflict:
Vitalis grapples with internal conflict stemming from his past. His
sense of guilt and remorse over his previous actions, particularly
those involving his former life as a criminal, haunts him throughout
the story. He struggles to reconcile his past deeds with his present
desire to lead a more honorable life, especially as he assumes
responsibility for caring for Remi. This internal conflict drives
Vitalis to seek redemption through his actions and the guidance of
Remi, demonstrating his internal struggle with morality and ethics.
● External conflict: Vitalis faces external challenges like
poverty, the cruelty of others, and the need to find work and
a place to stay

External challenges: cái đói, thời tiết khắc nghiệt (2 lần bão tuyết)
Vì criminal record nên bị hắt hủi, k có việc làm, lang thang vô định k
có chỗ ở
Vitalis faces external conflict due to societal rejection and prejudice.
As a former convict, he encounters mistrust and discrimination from
others, making it difficult for him to integrate into society and find
gainful employment. This conflict is exacerbated by the challenges
of navigating a society that judges individuals based on their past
rather than their present actions and character. Vitalis must contend
with societal barriers while trying to provide for himself and Remi,
highlighting the injustices and biases present in the world around
him. (Đoạn mấy ông cảnh sát bỏ tù Vitalis)
Backstory của Vitalis
“There is not much to tell. His name was not Vitalis. He was Carlo
Balzini, and if you had lived thirty-five or forty years ago in Italy,
that name alone would tell you all you want to know. Carlo Balzini
was the greatest singer of the day. He sang in Naples, Rome, Milan,
Venice, Florence, London and Paris. Then came the time when he
lost his magnificent voice, and as he could not be the greatest of
singers, he would not dim his fame by singing on cheaper stages
unworthy of his great reputation. Instead, he preferred to hide
himself from the world and from all who had known him in his
triumph. Yet he had to live. He tried several professions, but could
not succeed, then finally he took to training dogs. But in his poverty,
he was still very proud and he would have died of shame if the
public could have known that the brilliant Carlo Balzini had sunk to
the depths he had. It was just a matter of chance that I learned his
secret."
3. Mr. Barberin
Mr. Barberin is a character in the novel "Nobody's Boy" (also known
as "Sans Famille") by Hector Malot. Initially portrayed as Rémi's
adoptive father, Mr. Barberin's true nature and motives become
increasingly complex as the story progresses, adding depth and
tension to the narrative.
- Means of Revealing: Khi Remi và má Barberin đang tận hưởng
buổi chiều “hoàn hảo” cùng món bánh pancake mà cậu yêu thích
thì Mr Barberin bất ngờ xuất hiện. Là “cha” của Remi nhưng khi
cậu chạy ra chào, ông chẳng những không chào đón mà còn lấy
cây gậy của mình ra chặn cậu lại. Buổi chiều hoàn hảo đó đã bị
phá vỡ → Giống như những tháng ngày hạnh phúc của Remi sẽ
sớm bị lão Barberin lấy đi.
- Physical Description: Tác giả miêu tả lão Barberin là một người
đàn ông khoảng 50 tuổi, nét mặt hơi cứng và thô. Đầu hơi
nghiêng về phía vai phải do chấn thương khi làm việc (cắt đá),
sự biến dạng này khiến cho lão thêm phần đáng sợ
- Lão Barberin từ đầu tới cuối luôn là một nỗi ám ảnh của Remi.
Ngay từ lúc lão nhận nuôi Remi, lão đã nhận nuôi với một mục
đích chẳng mấy tốt đẹp, lão chỉ muốn chuộc lợi từ thằng bé. Rồi
những ngày Remi sống cùng lão, ngày nào cũng là một ngày tệ
hại, lão đối xử với cậu như một kẻ ở chứ chẳng phải con mình.
Lão bán cậu bé đi cho cụ Vitalis để lấy tiền, rồi cũng tìm lại bằng
được cậu bé để nhận tiền từ nhà Driscoll. Từ đầu tới cuối câu
chuyện, lão Barberin vẫn luôn vì ám ảnh với tiền mà đối xử với
một Remi chẳng giống như đối xử với một con người.
- Type of Character: Static, Flat. Throughout the story, Mr.
Barberin doesn’t undergo substantial development or growth in
terms of his personality, beliefs, or actions, his role within the
story may remain constant. He appears as an antagonist: sells
Remi and interferes with Remi’s journey for his good.
 4. Mrs. Barberin
- Means of Revealing: At the beginning of the novel, Mrs.
Barberin is portrayed as a caring and compassionate woman who
takes in Rémi when he is abandoned by his adoptive father. Her
initial actions of providing shelter and care for the orphaned
Rémi demonstrate her kindness and generosity. Mrs. Barberin
forms a strong emotional bond with Rémi, treating him as her
son. Her affectionate words and actions towards him reflect her
genuine love and concern for his well-being. This bond becomes
a central aspect of Rémi's life, providing him with a sense of
belonging and security. As the story progresses, Mrs. Barberin's
actions of keeping Remi’s childhood belongings lead to the
eventual reunion and reconciliation between Rémi and his birth
family, contributing to the happy ending of the novel.
- Character's Role: Mrs. Barberin serves as a guiding light for
Rémi, shaping his identity and providing him with the emotional
support he needs to navigate life's challenges. Through her
portrayal, Malot explores the profound impact of maternal
figures on the lives of orphaned children and emphasizes the
importance of love and belonging in shaping one's destiny.
- Type of Character: In terms of development, Mrs. Barberin is a
static character who emotionally supports Remi. Regarding
personality, Mrs. Barberin is a flat character with good
characteristics.
5. Mattia
- Means of Revealing: Mattia lần đầu xuất hiện khi mà Remi đến
gặp gã Garofoli. Cậu bị gã Garofoli độc ác ấy hành hạ, bỏ đói,
đánh đập và bóc lột. Cậu gầy đến nỗi Remi tả cậu như thể cậu
chỉ có mỗi đầu và 4 tay chân. Khuôn mặt cậu luôn ánh lên sự
buồn bã và dường như cậu chẳng còn hi vọng gì vào cuộc sống
của mình nữa.
- Character's Description: Mattia serves as a significant
companion and friend to Rémi throughout his journey. He
offers companionship, support, and guidance, becoming an
integral part of Rémi's life. Mattia là một người bạn tuyệt vời của
Remi, cậu tin tưởng Remi hết mình, ngay cả khi cậu đang lang
thang vô định sau khi thoát khỏi gã Garofoli, cậu chọn Remi là
nơi để cậu một lần nữa gửi gắm niềm tin và hi vọng sống. Cậu
ủng hộ Remi hết mình, cậu coi mục tiêu của Remi (cụ thể là mua
bò tặng cho má Barberin) như là mục tiêu của cậu và phấn đấu
hết mình vì nó, hạnh phúc khôn nguôi khi má Barberin nhận
được con bò ấy. Cậu chẳng hề bỏ rơi Remi ngay cả khi cậu đã có
cơ hội có được một cuộc sống tốt hơn, đủ đầy hơn cùng
Monsieur Espinassous. Không chỉ vậy, Mattia còn là một cậu bé
thông minh, cậu chơi nhiều loại nhạc cụ và học nhạc rất giỏi.
Trích sách bản tiếng Việt: “Nói cho đúng thì về sinh kế, Mattia
có những khả năng bẩm sinh mà tôi kém thua xa. Trước hết, nó
hơn tôi ở chỗ có tài chơi đủ mọi thứ đàn địch, lại biết hát, biết
nhảy múa, biết đóng đủ mọi vai trò. Đến cái việc kính thỉnh
“chư vị khán giả” móc hầu bao chi tiền - cụ Vi-ta-li ngày xưa
gọi thế - thì nó lại thạo hơn tôi vô kể. Chỉ mỗi cái nụ cười, đôi
mắt hiền dịu, hai hàm răng trắng ngà ngọc, cái vẻ mặt cởi mở
của nó đủ làm cảm kích những tay keo kiệt nhất. Nó không xin,
nhưng trông thấy nó, người ta đã muốn cho rồi, và làm cho nó
vui lòng cũng là một cái thú.” Ngoài ra, Mattia còn có con mắt
khôn ngoan và tinh tưởng, nó phát hiện ra cái khuất tất của gia
đình Driscoll và kéo Remi ra khỏi cái bẫy ấy, nó là người luôn
tỉnh táo lo cho kế sinh nhai khi Remi còn đang chìm đắm trong
niềm hạnh phúc của mình mà lơ là việc kiếm tiền.
- Type of Character: Dynamic, Round. Dynamic vì at first,
Mattia appears to have his insecurities, fears, or past traumas.
But after he escapes from Garofoli and embarks on his trip with
Remi, Mattia shows that he also possesses qualities of loyalty,
 resilience, and compassion, as evidenced by his unwavering
support for Rémi during their trials. Round vì as the story
unfolds, readers learn more about Mattia’s past, hopes, fears, and
aspirations, contributing to his status as a round character in the
novel
- Conflict: The conflicts involving Mattia may vary, encompassing
both internal and external struggles. In terms of internal
struggles, Mattia has to grapple with personal demons, such as
doubts about his self-worth or struggles to overcome past
traumas. Also, he experiences an internal struggle when Remi
finds his family, feeling both happy because he wants Remi to
find happiness and sad because he fears Remi will abandon him.
6. Capi
- Means of revealing: Capi, the loyal dog companion of Rémi, is
portrayed from Remi’s observation. Capi's loyalty, intelligence,
and bravery can be seen through his unwavering devotion to
Rémi and his willingness to protect him from danger.
Additionally, Capi's personality and character traits are revealed
through his behavior and the emotions he displays, such as joy,
fear, and sadness. While Capi doesn't speak, his reactions to
what others say can reveal his understanding and emotional state.
- Character role:
● Companion: Capi provides constant companionship and
emotional support for both Remi and Vitalis.
● Protector: Capi acts as a loyal guard, keeping Remi and
Vitalis safe from harm.
● Performer: Capi contributes to their income by performing
tricks with Remi, becoming an integral part of their busking
act.
- Type of character: Capi can be classified as a static character.
Unlike human characters who undergo significant change or
development, Capi’s fundamental traits and characteristics
remain consistent throughout the story
- Type of conflict:
Capi is involved in various conflicts throughout the narrative,
primarily as a loyal companion to Rémi. One of the central conflicts
surrounding Capi is the struggle for survival in a harsh and
unforgiving world. As Rémi's faithful dog, Capi faces numerous
dangers and challenges, including natural disasters, hostile animals,
and human adversaries, all of which threaten their safety and well-
being.
Another significant conflict for Capi is the internal conflict of loyalty
versus instinct. While Capi's loyalty to Rémi is unwavering, he must
also navigate his instincts as a dog, which sometimes lead him into
dangerous situations or compel him to act impulsively. This conflict
adds depth to Capi's character and underscores the challenges he
faces as a faithful companion in a tumultuous world.
Capi's conflicts primarily revolve around his role as Rémi's loyal
companion and the challenges they encounter together. His
unwavering loyalty and bravery in the face of danger highlight the
bond between humans and animals, as well as the themes of
friendship, loyalty, and perseverance that permeate the novel.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and dangers, Capi remains
steadfast in his commitment to Rémi, embodying the enduring
strength of their bond amidst the trials and tribulations of their
journey.
7. Other characters (Milligan, Acquin, Driscoll,
Garofoli, …)
- Mrs. Milligan:
● Means of revealing: When Remi and his companion animals
became fatigued because of long-distance traveling and
finding Zerbino, Remi decided to play music to distract
 himself and the animals from hunger. During his
performance, Mrs Milligan appeared as a spectator to their
bravo performance and later showed great sympathy for their
enduring journey. The introduction about Mrs Milligan
hinted at the many possible plot twists that might appear in
the story.
“Arthur's mother was English. Her name was Mrs. Milligan.
She was a widow, and Arthur was her only son; at least, it
was supposed that he was her only son living, for she had
lost an elder child under mysterious conditions. When the
child was six months old it had been kidnaped, and they had
never been able to find any trace of him. It is true that, at the
time he was taken, Mrs. Milligan had not been able to make
the necessary searches. Her husband was dying, and she
was dangerously ill and knew nothing of what was going on
around her. When she regained consciousness her husband
was dead and her baby had disappeared. Her brother-in-
law, Mr. James Milligan, had searched everywhere for the
child. There being no heir, he expected to inherit his
brother's property. Yet, after all, Mr. James Milligan
inherited nothing from his brother, for seven months after
the death of her husband, Mrs. Milligan's second son,
Arthur, was born.
But the doctors said that this frail, delicate child could not
live. He might die at any moment. In the event of his death,
Mr. James Milligan would succeed to the fortune. He waited
and hoped, but the doctors' predictions were not fulfilled.
Arthur lived. It was his mother's care that saved him.”
● Character’s role: Mrs Milligan, besides Mother Barberin,
are those who gave the main character a sense of family, a
sense of belonging. I was given a tiny cabin on the boat.
What a wonderful little room it appeared to me! Everything
was spotless. She gave great care to Remi until his master
was freed from the prison, and tried to persuade his master to
let him nurture the boy. The fact that Mrs. Milligan is
searching for a lost son around the same time Remi is a
wandering boy raises an intriguing possibility. The story
might explore a connection between them later on.
● Type of character: Static, Flat character. Mrs. Milligan is a
grieving mother. She lost her elder son under mysterious
circumstances when he was just six months old. This event
likely dominates her life, leaving her with immense sadness
and a lingering hope of finding him again. Despite the
passage of time, Mrs. Milligan hasn't given up on finding her
lost child. This suggests a strong and determined personality.
She actively searches for clues and inquiries about her son,
as seen in the episode
● The story takes a turn when she recognizes Remi's clothes,
leading to the revelation that he is her lost son. This
discovery offers her a chance for long-awaited happiness and
family reunification.
Overall, Mrs. Milligan embodies the unwavering love and hope of a
parent who refuses to let go. Though we only see a fragment of her
story, it leaves a lasting impression and compels the reader to
continue the journey to see if her search is successful.
- Garofoli
● Means of revealing: Garofoli's presence is shrouded in
secrecy. We only encounter him directly when Remi and
Vitalis visit his "padrone" (master). “We crossed a big
courtyard to a dirty, dismal house where surely the sun had
never penetrated. It was the worst-looking place I had seen
so far.”
 Despite this, his influence is significant.
● Character’s role: Garofoli's imprisonment and Vitalis' fear
of him create an opportunity for Remi to leave the troupe.
This sets Remi on a new path towards finding his real
family. Garofoli, despite his limited presence, is a key
antagonist in "Nobody's Boy." He represents the harsh
realities of the world Remi navigates and the dangers he
escapes. His cruelty serves as a foil to the kindness Remi
encounters on his journey.
● Static, flat character. The details surrounding Garofoli
paint a picture of a harsh and cruel individual. He runs a
troupe of performing children, implied through Mattia's
situation, to exploit them for profit. We also learn he is in
prison for beating a boy to death, highlighting his brutality.
Garofoli holds power over Vitalis through a dark secret,
possibly Vitalis' past as the singer Carlo Balzani. This secret
allows Garofoli to manipulate Vitalis, preventing him from
going to the authorities about the harsh conditions in the
troupe. We never get into Garofoli's mind, but his actions
and the way others react to him speak volumes. Mattia's
desperate state after leaving Garofoli further emphasizes the
cruelty of the man.
● “A boy about twelve years of age came forward. I was struck
by his strange looks. Even now, as I write, I can see him as I
saw him then. He had no body, so to speak, for he seemed all
legs and head. His great head was out of all proportion.
Built so, he could not have been called handsome, yet there
was something in his face that attracted one strangely, an
expression of sadness and gentleness and, yes ...
hopelessness. His large eyes held your own with sympathy.”
● “Signor Garofoli has a lot of boys here, some of them are
chimney sweeps, others rag pickers, and those who are not
strong enough to work, sing in the streets, or beg. Garofoli
gave me two little white mice to show to the public and I had
to bring him back thirty sous every night. As many sous as
you are short a day, so many blows you get. It is hard to pick
up thirty sous, but the blows are hard, too, especially when
it's Garofoli who gives them.”
● When one is very ill, they take care of you or they let you
die. If they let me die it will be all over, I shan't be hungry
anymore, and there'll be no more beatings. And they do say
that when we die we go up and live with God. Then, if I'm up
there, I can look down on Mamma and Christina, and I can
ask God not to let my little sister be unhappy. Also, if they
send me to the Hospital, I shall be pleased.
● "You know how much it hurts me to hear you cry," said
Garofoli, gently, addressing the victim. "You know that if the
whip tears your skin, your cries pierce my heart. So then I
warn you that for each cry you will receive another slash,
and it will be your fault. If you have any affection or
gratitude you will keep silent. Go on, Ricardo."
- The Acquin Family: “My new family consisted of the father,
whose name was Pierre Acquin, two boys, Alexix and Benjamin,
and two girls, Etiennette, the elder, and Lise, the youngest of the
family”
● Means of revealing: Pierre Acquin, the father, is the
gardener working at the farm where Rémi finds himself after
Vitalis, his master, passes away.
● Static, flat Character. Pierre is a kind and compassionate
person. He is likely one of the first people Rémi encounters
upon arriving at the farm, and the fact that he is present at
 Rémi's bedside with others suggests he takes an interest in
Rémi's well-being.
"Where are you going?" asked the gardener. "Wouldn't you like to
stay here and work? It won't be an easy life. You'll have to get up
very early in the morning and work hard all day. But you may be
sure that you won't have to go through what you did last night. You
will have a bed and food and you will have the satisfaction of
knowing that you have earned it. And, if you're a good boy, which I
think you are, you will be one of the family."
"There's his reply," said the father, laughing. "I can see by your face
how pleased you are; no need for you to say anything. Hang your
harp up there on the wall and when you get tired of us you may take
it down and go on your way again, but you must do like the
swallows, choose your season to start on your flight. Don't go off in
the depth of winter."
● Lise is a nice and caring young girl, who is eventually
Remi’s wife. She is depicted in the story as a dump girl, but
she has a big heart and shows great care and affection for
Remi from the start. “Lise was dumb. She was not born
dumb, but just before her fourth birthday, through an illness,
she had lost the power of speech. This affliction, fortunately,
had not impaired her intelligence; quite the contrary, her
intelligence was developed to an extraordinary degree. She
seemed to understand everything. And her sweet, pretty ways
made her adored by the family.”
● Other characters of the Acquin family are to show a stark
contrast to the Driscoll family. As plain strangers, the care
and affection they gave towards Remi was more than
anything he received when he got reunited with his supposed
family - The Driscolls. This is another sign to show that he is
not to be a member of the Driscoll family.
Scarcely had we got upstairs than they all crowded around me. Lise
clung to me, crying. Then I knew, that despite their grief at parting
from one another, it was of me that they thought; they pitied me
because I was alone. I felt, indeed, then that I was their brother.
At seven o'clock Etiennette, in her turn, took me to the garden. "I
want to give you a little keepsake, Remi," she said. "Take this little
case; my godfather gave it to me. You'll find thread, needles, and
scissors in it; when you are tramping along the roads you'll need
them, for I shan't be there to put a patch on your clothes, nor sew a
button on. When you use my scissors, think of us all."
Etiennette was speaking to me, and Alexix loitered near; when she
left me to return to the house, he came up. "Say, Remi," he began,
"I've got two five-franc pieces. Take one; I'll be so pleased if you
will."
, neither, had forgotten me; he also wanted to give me a present. He
gave me his knife, and in exchange, he exacted a sou because he said
"A knife cuts friendship."
- The Driscoll family:
● Means of revealing: Setting: “Our guide looked about him in
disgust, then entered the swing doors of the gin palace. We
followed. Although we were in a miserable part of the city I
had never seen anything more luxurious”. => Far from an
expectation of a luxurious, rich family mother Barberin
talked about => implications that this is not his true family
● The Driscoll family appears as the family that lost Remi
several years back in the story. They “reconnected” to the
boy through Mr. Barberin, who sold Remi to his master
Vitalis.
● Character’s role: The Driscoll family served as a means to
help Remi find his true family. When the protagonist, Remi,
finally finds the Driscolls, his supposed family, they are
 distant and uncaring. This coldness is a stark contrast to
Remi's longing for a family throughout the novel. The
Driscolls are revealed to be thieves, using Remi's friend Capi
for their schemes. This discovery shatters Remi's hope of
finding a loving family. The reunion with the Driscolls is a
major turning point in the novel. It highlights the cruelty of
fate and the complexities of family. Remi goes from hopeful
to disillusioned.
● Red flags:
My father then asked why Barberin had not come with me. I told him
that he was dead. He seemed pleased to hear this. He repeated it to
my mother, who also seemed pleased. Why were they both pleased
that Barberin was dead?
I flung the bag from my shoulders and took the chair that he offered
me. As I stretched out my legs, wet, and covered with mud, to the fire
my grandfather spat on one side, like an old cat that is annoyed.
"Don't pay any attention to him," said my father; "the old chap
doesn't like anyone to sit before his fire, but you needn't mind him if
you're cold."
I was surprised to hear anyone speak like this of an old man. I kept
my legs under my chair, for I thought that attention should be paid
to him.
Although I had not been brought up exactly on the principle of good
breeding, I noticed that my brothers and sister's behaved very badly
at the table; they ate more often with their fingers, sticking them into
the gravy and licking them without my father and mother seeming to
notice them. As to my grandfather, he gave his whole attention to
what was before him, and the one hand that he was able to use went
continually from his plate to his mouth. When he let a piece fall from
his shaking fingers my brothers and sisters laughed.
I thought that we should spend the evening together around the fire,
but my father said that he was expecting friends, and told us to go to
bed.
From that day one in my family openly showed their dislike for me.
My grandfather continued to spit angrily when I approached him.
The boys and my eldest sister played every trick they possibly could
upon me. My father and mother ignored me, only demanding of me
my money every evening. Out of the whole family, for whom I had
felt so much affection when I had landed in England, there was only
baby Kate who would let me fondle her, and she turned from me
coldly if I had not candy or an orange in my pocket for her.
IV. OUR MORAL LESSON
- Regardless of situation, do not lose yourself
Không được để cái xấu xa của xã hội bào mòn những khía cạnh tốt
đẹp của mình. Những người tử tế chân thành sẽ luôn dành được sự
yêu mến của mọi người. “Không gì có thể đánh đổi được nhân cách
và tâm hồn; giữ gìn nhân phẩm, luôn làm người có ích cho xã hội
mới giúp chúng ta không phải hối hận vì đã sống một cuộc đời vô
nghĩa trước lúc nhắm mắt xuôi tay.” - Vitalis
- Everything comes with a price
Bất cứ sự tự do nào cũng cần trả giá. Việc đi chu du khắp nơi, nhìn
ngắm đó đây, được làm việc một cách tự do đổi lại là sự bấp bênh
nay đây mai đó, bữa đói bữa no, phải chịu rét chịu khổ. Nếu không
may mắn còn phải trả giá rất đắt như cái chết vì đói và lạnh của cụ
Vitali.
- Pursue your goals to the end, do not fear difficulty, do
not fear hardship (overcoming adversity)
Kiên trì đến cùng, dù chỉ có một tia hi vọng mong manh cũng nên cố
gắng theo đuổi đến cùng. Vì nhờ kiên trì theo dấu thuyền Thiên Nga
mà Remi đã tìm lại được gia đình rồi sau đó là những điều tốt đẹp
liên tiếp đến với chúa và những người thân yêu. Tuổi trẻ đừng ngại
đương đầu với khó khăn bởi nếu không bị lạc đường ta sẽ khó biết
mình vốn rất sợ hãi, nếu không bị dối gạt ta sẽ khó biết mình rất dễ
tổn thương, nếu không bị bỏ rơi ta sẽ khó thấy được bản chất yếu
đuối và dựa dẫm của mình.
Tiến lên! Thế giới mở rộng trước mắt tôi, tôi có thể dời chân xuống
nam hay lên bắc, sang đông hay qua đoài tùy lòng. Tôi chỉ là một
đứa trẻ con, thế mà tôi đã làm chủ cuộc đời của tôi. (The world was
before me; I could go where I liked, north, south, east or west. I was
my own master. How many children there are who say to themselves,
"If I could only do as I liked, ... if I were my own master!”),
- Seek support from others
Ta luôn cần một cánh tay vững chãi cho ta tựa vào và truyền thêm
sức mạnh giúp ta đủ can đảm vượt qua gian khó. Bàn tay ấy có thể
không đủ sức kéo ta khỏi vũng lầy bất hạnh nhưng nó đã làm nỗi khổ
đau vơi đi ít nhiều.
“Khi mọi việc yên ổn, thì ta cứ cặm cụi đi con đường của ta, không
thèm quan tâm đến những kẻ cùng đi với ta. Nhưng khi mọi việc đều
chẳng ra gì, khi ta cảm thấy đương gặp bước gian truân, nhất là khi
ta đã già nua không tin tưởng ở ngày mai nữa, thì ta cần tựa vào
những người chung quanh ta. Ta hết sức sung sướng được nhìn thấy
có họ bên cạnh mình. Nói rằng ông tựa vào cháu thì cháu lấy làm lạ
lắm có phải không? Ấy mà đúng như thế đấy. Chỉ một việc nhìn cháu
nghe lời ông nói mà mắt cháu nhòa lệ, ông cũng đã nhẹ bớt phiền
não một phần.” (Vitalis - Đường về Paris gặp Garofoli)
("It is you who are good. You brave little heart. There comes a time
in one's life when one feels these things. When all goes well, one
goes along through life without thinking much about who is with
one, but when things go wrong when one is on the wrong track, and
above all when one is old, one wants to lean on somebody. You may
be surprised that I have wanted to lean on you. And yet it is so. But
only to see that your eyes are moist as you listen to me, comforts me,
little Remi. I am very unhappy.")
- The importance of family, friendship and belonging
Chủ đề gia đình và tình bạn luôn hiện hữu xuyên suốt tác phẩm
không gia đình. Cậu bé Remi cho đến cuối câu chuyện đã tìm được
gia đình thật sự , nhưng những người đi cùng cậu trên chuyến hành
trình đó cũng là gia đình của cậu. Là má Barberin nuôi dưỡng cậu từ
lúc cậu được nhặt về, coi cậu như con đẻ của mình. Là cụ Vitalis,
người thầy, người cha đã dạy cho cậu con chữ, dạy hát cũng như
những bài học về nhân sinh. Là Mattia, người đã đồng hành với cậu
trong phần còn lại của chuyến đi. Là gia đình Milligan, gia đình thật
sự của cậu. Tuy không phải máu mủ ruột rà nhưng họ vẫn yêu
thương, coi Remi như chính người thân trong gia đình của mình. Và
tình cảm của Remi dành cho họ cũng chân thành như vậy.
Chi tiết xúc động, sau khi tìm được gia đình, cậu vẫn luôn nhớ về cụ
Vitalis
Cụ chủ thân yêu của cháu ơi! Giá được phụng dưỡng tuổi già của cụ
thì cháu sung sướng biết ngần nào! Nếu thế, hẳn cụ phải bỏ cái ống
tiêu, tấm da cừu và chiếc áo nhung của cụ ra, cụ đã không lặp đi lặp
lại cái câu: “Nào ta tiến lên, các con!”. Được trọng vọng trong tuổi
già, hẳn cụ có thể hẳn cụ có thể ngẩng cao cáu đầu bạc rất đẹp và
lấy lại tên tuổi của cụ ngày xưa. Ông già Vitalis vô gia cư sẽ trở lại
làm nhà danh ca Carlo Balzani. Không làm được gì đối với cụ thì
cái chết tàn nhẫn đã cướp cụ đi, thì cháu cũng cố vớt vát ít nhiều đối
với vong linh của cụ. Thể theo yêu cầu của cháu, mẹ cháu đã xây
cho cụ một ngôi mộ trong nghĩa địa Montparnasse ở Paris, và cháu
đã cho khắc tên Carlo Balzani lên bia mộ.
(Alas! poor master! poor Vitalis! I could not do much for you in life,
but at my request, my mother has erected a marble tomb and placed
your bust, the bust of Carlo Balzini, upon the tomb. A copy of this
bust is before me now as I write, and often while penning my
"Memoirs," I have looked up and my eyes have caught yours. I have
not forgotten you; I shall never forget you, dear master, dear
Vitalis.)
+ Mua cho má Barberin con bò ngày trở về
+ Tình bạn chân thành giữa Remi và Mattia

- The power of knowledge

Người có hiểu biết, luôn tìm tòi học hỏi có cuộc sống tốt hơn. Như
trong vụ tai nạn trong hầm mỏ, nếu không nhờ sự hiểu biết của cụ
giáo thì trong 120 người bị lụt dưới hầm mỏ đã không thể có 6 người
còn sống sót.
Remi trong suốt hành trình không ngừng học hỏi những kỹ năng,
kiến thức mới (được dạy chữ, dạy thanh nhạc, dạy những bài học về
cuộc sống)

The downsides of society gradually emerged amid the luxury of

France, such as child labor being overused, the slave class being
badly trampled, and some people making money against all odds,.
There are lots of practical and significant lessons integrated
throughout the journey. Even so, "Nobody's Boy" is an adorable
story. There are always kind people along the way willing to help
Rémi, and the animals, our Capi and Joli are the most loyal friends of
the boy as they've never left him alone during the journey. The days
of roaming around have created a strong, resilient Remi but also an
extremely benevolent and optimistic boy as he has always thought of
and appreciated those who gave him their hands in the most difficult
times in his life.