The Last Duel

The ending of The Last Duel leaves the audience questioning the nature of truth and justice. After the brutal duel, Jean de Carrouges emerges victorious over Jacques Le Gris, and Jacques, despite pleading innocence till his last breath, is killed in the fight. The story suggests that while Jean’s victory may have restored some sense of honor, it also highlights the tragic flaws within the medieval justice system, where a life was sometimes decided by combat rather than evidence.

The film hints that Marguerite’s testimony, which incited the duel, might have been motivated by more complex feelings and circumstances—be it fear, shame, or even a desire to protect her own honor. Interestingly, the narrative explores multiple theories about what truly happened that day. Some suggest Marguerite might have falsely accused Jacques to cover her own secrets, or that there was a mistaken identity, especially since witnesses like Adam Louvel were hesitant to speak openly. Others believe the matter was simply a tragic miscarriage of justice, with innocent people suffering because of societal and legal flaws.

The film ends on a somber note, emphasizing that the truth is often elusive and that stories are shaped by perspective and bias. Marguerite’s suffering, whether justified or not, underscores how women’s voices were silenced or dismissed during that era. Ultimately, The Last Duel challenges viewers to reflect on the corrupting influence of power and the destructive nature of injustice—where even the victorious may carry the burden of doubt and ambiguity. The story leaves us with the lingering question of whether justice was truly served or if it was just the outcome of a brutal, biased system.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:59