summary

Summary

The story of «Mademoiselle Fifi» takes place during the Franco-Prussian War. At the center of the plot is a group of Prussian officers temporarily stationed in a château in occupied France. Among them stands out Lieutenant von Eyrick, nicknamed «Mademoiselle Fifi» for his effeminacy and eccentricity. The officers decide to entertain themselves by inviting several women from a local brothel. During the party, von Eyrick begins to insult one of the women, Rachel, for her French heritage. In response to his rudeness and humiliation, Rachel kills him with a knife. She then escapes, and the officers, to avoid scandal, conceal the circumstances of von Eyrick's death. The story raises themes of national pride, honor, and human dignity.