TPO 8 q1

In this set of materials, the reading claims that the memoir of the Chevalier is not accurate enough to be used as a historical source because it was distorted to show his life more exciting. The author provides three reasons for this claim. While, in the listening, the professor casts doubt on what is presented in the text and rejects each of the author's reasons.

First of all, it is clearly stated in the text that the Chevalier borrowed large amount of money from a Swiss merchant which proves that he was not a rich person as he stated in memoir. However, the professor rejects this idea and explains that he had a lot of properties but it toke time to sell them and provide money. He borrowed some money until he could cash his properties.

In addition, the professor disagrees with this point that the Chevalier could not remember all details of his conversations with Voltaire and could not wrote the exact dialogues. The professor points out that he had meeting with Voltaire each night and he toke note from his conversations at the end of night after it was happened. Therefore, he used these notes to mention all details in memoir.

Finally, it is asserted in the text that Chevalier he was not escaped from the prison even he was bribed to free him by using his political friends in the Venetian. In contrast, the professor provides some evidences to oppose this view as he explains that many other prisoner have had more powerful political relationships than Chevalier, but they could not be bribed. Therefore, he have not had any other choice except escaping. Furthermore, the roof of the prison was sealed and repaired when he is gone which shows his claim of escaping.