Carmen

An archaeologist travelling in Andalusia meets a wanted outlaw, don José, then a gypsy woman telling fortunes in Córdoba. Years later he finds don José in prison on the eve of his execution and takes down his confession. A corporal once headed for promotion, he tells of meeting Carmen, of deserting, and of the smuggling life she drew him into. The story explores jealousy, the freedom Carmen gives up to no one, and the traveller's view of the gypsies of Spain. Mérimée sets the confession inside a scholarly enquiry that sharpens its coldness.