Americans in France

           Virginie had to leave Louisiana because of the American Civil War. Virginie, her mother, and her sister went to France. There was an abundant group of Americans in France. They host parties and try to keep their typical lifestyles from America in France. However, the French people did not like Americans. A prime example is when Virginie changed the notes of a musical composition and her piano teacher was angry. He refused to teach her anymore. He considered her and Mama as silly women but also Americans. He considered that "a hopeless combination". Further in the novel, the reporters claimed that Virginie was sleeping with someone that the French did not like. They made up stories and claims because they hated Americans. Americans had wealth and characteristics that the French did not see as tasteful. People in society saw Virginie as dressing provocatively, wearing makeup, and dying her hair. Lastly, a columnist claimed Sargent and Virginie as dangerous threats. He wrote, "They have painters who seize our medals, such as Monsieur Sargent, and pretty women who eclipse ours, like Madame Gautreau." Americans were not welcomed, especially in this time period of war.