Meet the Cast
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
He Wants No Less than to ConfessAt first, it might be a little hard to believe that Rousseau wants to parade his deepest, darkest secrets around for every Bill, Bob, and Mary to peruse. What's the...
Mme de Warens (Mama)
Rousseau's Lady LoveNo one is more influential on Rousseau than Mama. Even though their relationship isn't as maternal as her nickname suggests, Mama provides support in all areas of Rousseau's you...
Mme d'Epinay
Rousseau Likes Them RichRousseau first refers to Mme d'Epinay as a wealthy friend who is "pleasant, witty, and talented, and certainly a good acquaintance to make" (7.3.4). We'll say, Rousseau. Mme...
Therese
The Invisible WifeWho's Therese, you say? Sure, she's responsible for a lot of Rousseau's domestic happiness. But Rousseau writes entire volumes of his life without mentioning her once. Here's what...
Diderot
Famous in His Own RightNow, Diderot's not just some character Rousseau pulled out of thin air. He's a famous French intellectual, writer, and philosopher who just happens to be buddies with Roussea...
Mme d'Houdetot
Keep it DiscreetIf Mama is Rousseau's one true love, Mme d'Houdetot is his obsession. Like all of Rousseau's lady friends, we get a very limited perspective into what Mme d'Houdetot is thinking. Sh...