The Countdown of Monte Cristo

Welcome to The Countdown of Monte Cristo, the daily podcast where we break down one of literature’s greatest adventures, bite by bite. For the next four years—yes, you heard that right—host Landen Celano will be reading a passage from Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo every single day. Each episode offers a short escape into this timeless tale of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, paired with Landen’s reflections, insights, and occasional forays into 19th-century oddities. Never read The Count of Monte Cristo? Perfect—you’re not alone. This show is for first-timers, seasoned fans, or anyone who’s curious about exploring a literary masterpiece one small morsel at a time. Along the way, we’ll dig into historical tidbits, unpack the story’s twists and turns, and maybe even stumble over a French pronunciation or two. (Phonetics are hard, okay?) Whether you’re a lover of classics, a casual listener looking for a daily dose of culture, or just someone who needs a momentary escape from the noise of the modern world, this podcast has something for you. So grab your metaphorical ticket to Marseille, and let’s set sail on this absurdly ambitious journey together. Subscribe now on your favorite podcatcher or find us on YouTube. And don’t forget to support the show at https://patreon.com/gruntworkpod. Join us as we count down The Count!

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Episodes

9 hours ago

📚 Summary:Caderousse, a tailor and old acquaintance, arrives at the Dantès home with a broad grin and an overly warm greeting for Edmond. Though outwardly friendly, his exaggerated demeanor and mention of a past loan suggest an underlying tension. Dantès responds with politeness but remains wary. As the conversation unfolds, Caderousse reveals he ran into Danglars at the quay, reinforcing the presence of these two figures in Dantès’ orbit—an ominous pairing for the young sailor’s future.
✨ What Happens:
Caderousse enters, carrying cloth for a coat-lining, greeting Edmond with a thick Marseillaise accent and a too-wide grin.
Dantès responds with forced civility, masking his coolness with politeness.
Caderousse brushes off a past loan, declaring they are “quits,” but Dantès insists gratitude remains for those who offer help.
The conversation shifts to Dantès’ return, with Caderousse recounting how he met Danglars, who informed him of Edmond’s whereabouts.
Caderousse claims he rushed over purely to greet Edmond as a friend, but his excessive friendliness raises doubts.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
The dynamic between Caderousse and Dantès is one of social obligation versus genuine trust—Dantès remains polite but distant.
Caderousse’s exaggerated friendliness and immediate mention of a financial debt create an air of unease.
Danglars’ casual mention of Dantès’ return to Caderousse feels calculated—he may already be manipulating events.
“We’re quits”—a phrase that seems to clear past debts but also carries a tone of finality or dismissal.
Caderousse, though the same age as Dantès, calls him “my dear boy,” subtly asserting dominance or familiarity in a way that feels off.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Caderousse as a tailor: A respectable yet working-class trade, making his ability to lend money unusual. This highlights the Dantès family’s financial struggles before Edmond’s return.
The Marseillaise accent: A distinct marker of regional identity in 19th-century France, possibly reinforcing Caderousse’s local standing and ties to the community.
Dumas’ tendency to give character ages in ranges: A minor stylistic quirk but one that adds a sense of informal storytelling, though it may frustrate modern readers.
Caderousse and Danglars together? A pairing that suggests early signs of intrigue, jealousy, and potential scheming.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy breaking down The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod for exclusive content and to support the show.
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2 days ago

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès returns home, eager to share his wealth with his father, offering him financial security and small luxuries like smuggled coffee and tobacco. Though grateful, the elder Dantès remains cautious, unwilling to spend too freely. Their reunion is interrupted by the arrival of Caderousse, a neighbor whose overly warm greeting and presence hint at deeper tensions beneath the surface.
✨ What Happens:
Dantès empties his pockets, giving his father a share of his earnings and urging him to buy provisions.
Old Dantès is overjoyed but wary of spending too much at once, fearing what others might say.
Dantès insists his father hire a servant and promises to bring him smuggled coffee and fine tobacco from the ship.
Their conversation is cut short by the arrival of Caderousse, who claims to bring congratulations.
Dantès acknowledges the past kindness of Caderousse but remains wary, suspecting that his words may not align with his true thoughts.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ generosity highlights his love for his father and his desire to provide, but it also contrasts with his father’s caution—suggesting the old man has learned to be careful with fortune.
Smuggled coffee and tobacco reveal Dantès’ practicality and hint at the morally gray world of maritime trade in Marseille.
Caderousse’s arrival interrupts a moment of warmth, introducing tension and the first signs of underlying betrayal.
“Lips that say one thing, while the heart thinks another”—Dantès immediately distrusts Caderousse, setting the stage for future conflict.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Smuggling in 19th-century France: Coffee and tobacco were heavily taxed luxury items, making smuggling a common and often overlooked practice among sailors.
Economic Caution: Old Dantès’ fear of spending too much too soon suggests past hardships—was he dependent on others during Edmond’s absence?
Caderousse’s role: His arrival, framed by Dantès’ immediate suspicion, signals the beginning of a pattern of false friendships and hidden motives.
Foreshadowing: Dantès’ openness and trust in the world will soon be exploited, and this passage subtly hints at the forces aligning against him.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy breaking down The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod for exclusive content and to support the show.
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3 days ago

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès returns home, eager to share his hard-earned money with his father and lift him out of poverty. Though grateful, old Dantès is wary of spending too freely, fearful of what others might think. Edmond insists his father no longer live in hardship, even promising him smuggled coffee and tobacco from the ship. Their moment of reunion is soon interrupted by Caderousse, a neighbor whose visit may not be as well-intentioned as it seems.
✨ What Happens:
Dantès gives his father money, urging him to buy provisions and enjoy life.
Old Dantès, though thankful, is reluctant to spend too much at once, cautious of public perception.
Dantès insists his father hire a servant, showing his deep concern for his well-being.
He also promises to bring home smuggled coffee and high-quality tobacco, highlighting his resourcefulness.
Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Caderousse, a neighbor who claims to bring congratulations.
Dantès acknowledges Caderousse’s past kindness but suspects his words may not reflect his true thoughts.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ generosity toward his father reveals his strong moral character and love for his family.
The old man’s caution about appearances suggests he understands the fragile nature of fortune and reputation.
The arrival of Caderousse introduces the theme of deception—his words and intentions don’t seem to align.
Dantès himself engages in low-level smuggling, a small but telling detail that foreshadows how easily morality can shift depending on circumstance.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Why was smuggling so common? Coffee and tobacco were heavily taxed luxury items in 19th-century France, making smuggling a widespread practice among sailors.
Economic and Legal Risks: Being caught with contraband could lead to fines, confiscation, or even imprisonment. However, small amounts were often overlooked or hidden with ease.
What does this reveal about Dantès? His smuggling is not driven by greed but by care for his father, showing his practicality and the realities of maritime trade in Marseille.
Caderousse’s arrival: His presence signals the beginning of Dantès’ misfortunes—his words of congratulations may conceal jealousy and resentment.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy breaking down The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod for exclusive content and to support the show.
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4 days ago

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès shares the news of his expected promotion to captain with his father, promising a future of comfort and security. Overwhelmed with joy, the old man suddenly collapses, revealing the financial hardship he endured during Edmond’s absence. Dantès, horrified to find their cupboards bare, realizes his father has been living in quiet destitution, forcing him to question what else may have been sacrificed in his name.
✨ What Happens:
Dantès excitedly tells his father that he is set to become the captain of the Pharaon, earning a lucrative 100 Louis salary.
He dreams of buying his father a house with a garden, filled with his favorite climbing flowers.
His father suddenly weakens and nearly faints, alarming Edmond.
Searching for wine to revive him, Dantès discovers there is none—his father has been living in poverty.
Dantès realizes his father may have struggled financially while he was away.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ ambition takes a more personal meaning—he doesn’t just want success for himself, but to provide for his father.
The conversation adds emotional depth to Dantès’ character: grateful for his fortune but aware it came at the expense of another man’s death.
His father’s financial hardship raises questions—was it just his pride, or is there something more sinister at play?
100 Louis was a significant salary in 1815, comparable to a respectable middle-class income today (roughly $7,700 in 2025).
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
The revelation of his father’s struggles foreshadows potential betrayals—who allowed him to suffer?
Dantès’ vision of a simple, happy life with his father is one of the first things we know will be taken from him.
The contrast between Dantès’ rising fortune and his father’s poverty highlights the novel’s central themes of fate and injustice.
📣 Support the Show:Love exploring The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod for exclusive content and to support the show.
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5 days ago

📚 Summary:In this tender chapter, Edmond Dantès reunites with his father after returning from his voyage aboard the Pharaon. Overcome with joy, his father trembles at the sight of his son, while Dantès promises happiness and better days ahead. Their heartfelt reunion reveals the strength of their bond and the sacrifices made in Dantès’ absence.
 
✨ What Happens:
Leaving Danglars’ scheming behind, Dantès travels through the bustling streets of Marseille to his father’s modest home.
He ascends a dark staircase and pauses at the door to observe his father lovingly tending to climbing plants by the window.
Surprising his father with an embrace, Dantès is met with overwhelming joy as his father trembles with emotion.
Dantès reassures his father, promising that their happiness begins now that he has returned.
 
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ love and respect for his father show a softer, more human side of his character, contrasting the brewing tensions elsewhere.
The vivid descriptions of Marseille ground the story in its historical and cultural context, immersing readers in Dantès’ journey home.
Could Dantès’ father’s reaction hint at something more—perhaps his health is fragile, or he has been hiding struggles during his son’s absence?
 
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Marseille as a Character: The bustling streets of La Canebière and Rue de Noailles reflect the vibrancy of 19th-century Marseille, adding texture to Dantès’ world.
Dantès’ Optimism: His promises of happiness and future plans suggest his naivety and hope, but how long can this optimism last?
Foreshadowing?: The father’s trembling joy could hint at future challenges, both for him and his relationship with Dantès.
 
📣 Support the Show:Love diving into The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Support the show and gain access to exclusive content through the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod.
 
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6 days ago

📚 Summary:As Edmond Dantès prepares to leave the Pharaon, M. Morrel inquires about his opinion of keeping Danglars aboard if he becomes captain. Dantès diplomatically expresses respect for Morrel’s confidence in his crew. Granted leave and a skiff, Dantès departs for La Canebière, disappearing into the bustling port city of Marseille, while M. Morrel fondly observes his departure and Danglars watches with a more suspicious eye.
✨ What Happens:
M. Morrel asks Dantès whether he would want Danglars to remain aboard if he became captain, and Dantès offers a tactful response.
Dantès is granted leave and a skiff to go ashore, where he plans to visit his father and Mercédès.
Dantès departs through the crowded harbor, filled with ships and activity, heading to La Canebière.
M. Morrel warmly observes Dantès’ departure, while Danglars lurks in the background, watching with suspicion.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ diplomatic response to Morrel’s question shows his ability to navigate tricky interpersonal dynamics—something that might come in handy later.
The description of La Canebière is vivid and full of life—imagine standing in the hustle of vendors, sailors, and traders as Dantès weaves through the crowd.
Danglars’ quiet observation of Dantès hints at growing animosity, adding an undercurrent of tension to the scene.
Shout-out to the first chapter being complete—already, we’ve had so much setup and intrigue!
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
La Canebière’s Importance: This iconic Marseille street comes alive with commerce, culture, and chaos, offering a vivid backdrop for Dantès’ journey.
Danglars’ Intentions: His lingering gaze on Dantès suggests the seeds of conflict are already being planted.
Chapter 1 Reflection: This chapter expertly introduces the main players, setting up Dantès’ rising fortune and the jealousies brewing around him.
📣 Support the Show:Love exploring The Count of Monte Cristo one passage at a time? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod for exclusive content and to support the show.
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7 days ago

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès’ dream of becoming captain of the Pharaon seems within reach as M. Morrel expresses his intention to advocate for him with his partner. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Dantès thanks M. Morrel for his support on behalf of himself, his father, and Mercédès. When asked about Danglars, Dantès diplomatically acknowledges his competence but alludes to their personal animosity, recalling a past quarrel that almost led to a duel at Monte Cristo.
✨ What Happens:
Dantès is ecstatic at the possibility of being promoted to captain of the Pharaon.
M. Morrel pledges to push for Dantès’ promotion, despite needing his partner’s approval.
Dantès expresses his deep gratitude to M. Morrel, crediting him with helping his loved ones as well.
Dantès diplomatically discusses Danglars, acknowledging his professional competence but hinting at their strained relationship.
A past disagreement between Dantès and Danglars is revealed, where Dantès suggested settling the matter at Monte Cristo, a challenge Danglars declined.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès handles the question about Danglars like a seasoned diplomat, dodging outright criticism while subtly hinting at the tension. Is this tactful or overly cautious?
M. Morrel’s faith in Dantès highlights his rising fortune, but the proverb “he who has a partner has a master” offers a sobering perspective on the limits of independence—especially relevant to creative projects (shout-out to Truman Capps!).
The Monte Cristo quarrel is an intriguing callback to the titular island, already building layers of symbolism and foreshadowing.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Proverb Insight: “He who has a partner has a master” underscores the dual-edged sword of collaboration—a theme worth exploring both in the novel and in life.
Monte Cristo Foreshadowing: The island is introduced as more than just a setting, potentially symbolizing unresolved conflicts and future challenges.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy exploring The Count of Monte Cristo? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod to support the show and access exclusive content.
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Thursday Jan 30, 2025

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès clarifies that Mercédès is his betrothed, not his mistress, demonstrating his strong values. M. Morrel praises Dantès’ responsibility and devotion to his father while offering him financial help, which Dantès politely declines, citing three months’ saved wages. Dantès requests leave to marry Mercédès and travel to Paris, which M. Morrel approves, hinting at Dantès’ future captaincy of the Pharaon.
✨ What Happens:
Dantès corrects M. Morrel, emphasizing that Mercédès is his fiancée, not a mistress.
M. Morrel acknowledges Dantès’ care for his father and offers him money, which Dantès refuses.
Dantès requests a leave of absence to marry Mercédès and make a trip to Paris.
M. Morrel hints at Dantès becoming the next captain of the Pharaon, reinforcing his trust and admiration.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Dantès’ steadfastness and sense of honor shine through here, but does he take himself a little too seriously?
M. Morrel continues to be a mixed bag—part jolly entrepreneur, part opportunist. Is his generosity genuine or rooted in self-interest?
The captaincy hint solidifies how much faith M. Morrel places in Dantès, adding to the brewing tension with Danglars.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Dantès’ Leave: His plans to marry Mercédès and travel to Paris may be pivotal to the story’s unfolding drama.
M. Morrel’s Character: His affable yet business-minded nature leaves room for interpretation—friend or opportunist?
Captaincy as a Goal: The potential promotion adds to the stakes and highlights Dantès’ rising fortune, making the brewing jealousy from Danglars even more palpable.
📣 Support the Show:Love exploring The Count of Monte Cristo? Subscribe, share, and leave a review! Join the Grunt Work Podcast Network on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod to support the show and access exclusive content.
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Wednesday Jan 29, 2025

📚 Summary:Edmond Dantès discusses his father’s well-being with M. Morrel, noting his father’s pride and self-reliance. Dantès also mentions another important visit after seeing his father, prompting M. Morrel to tease him about his fiancée, Mercédès. M. Morrel reveals Mercédès’ devotion, sharing that she eagerly inquired about the Pharaon’s return multiple times.
✨ What Happens:
M. Morrel praises Dantès for his devotion to his father and reassures him that his father is doing well.
Dantès notes his father’s pride, stating he wouldn’t ask for help even in times of need.
Dantès hints at a second important visit after seeing his father, leading M. Morrel to tease him about Mercédès.
M. Morrel praises Mercédès for her beauty and devotion, revealing her excitement about the ship’s return.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
We’re introduced to two key figures in Dantès’ life: his father and his fiancée, Mercédès. Their roles seem likely to grow in importance.
M. Morrel’s teasing gives us a glimpse of Dantès’ personal life and the strong ties he has with the people who care for him.
Not a lot of action today, but we’re clearly building a foundation for deeper connections and potential drama.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Dantès’ Father: His self-reliance and pride might hint at challenges ahead, especially if hardship befalls him.
Mercédès: Her devotion and beauty are emphasized, foreshadowing her importance to the story.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy the journey into The Count of Monte Cristo? Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with friends! Join us on Patreon at patreon.com/gruntworkpod to support the show and access exclusive content.
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Tuesday Jan 28, 2025

📚 Summary:Danglars subtly accuses Edmond Dantès of receiving a mysterious packet and letter from Captain Leclère but quickly backtracks, claiming he might be mistaken. M. Morrel decides to let Dantès clarify the matter himself if needed. Dantès then confirms he has completed all customs duties and politely declines M. Morrel’s dinner invitation, explaining his first priority is to visit his father.
✨ What Happens:
Danglars claims to have seen Captain Leclère give Dantès a packet and letter but suggests it might have been a misunderstanding.
M. Morrel chooses not to press the issue, trusting Dantès to address it if the letter exists.
Dantès returns and confirms all customs-related tasks are complete.
Dantès declines M. Morrel’s invitation to dine, citing his priority to visit his father.
💡 Thoughts & Reflections:
Danglars’ behavior reeks of snooping, but what’s his endgame here? Is it jealousy or something more?
The mysterious packet and letter are quickly becoming the central point of intrigue. What’s inside, and why is it so significant?
Dantès’ dedication to his father adds a heartfelt moment, contrasting with the mounting tension.
📖 Tidbits & Speculation:
Danglars’ Motivations: Is his jealousy over Dantès’ position as first mate driving this, or does he genuinely suspect something?
The Packet Mystery: Given Napoleon’s presence on Elba, the packet may hold politically sensitive information, adding stakes to Dantès’ mission.
📣 Support the Show:Enjoy diving into The Count of Monte Cristo? Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with your friends! You can also support the show and the Grunt Work Podcast Network at patreon.com/gruntworkpod.
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