The Red and the Black is a novel about a lower-class man named Julien Sorel who's intelligence and cunning allow him to climb through the ranks of society. After entering into an affair with Madame de Renal, he ends up in a seminary and, after accidently helping his political opponents, monarchical legitimists, he enters into a love affair with his employer's daughter. After Madame de Renal warns his employer that he is dangerous, he shoots her, is sent to prison and, despite his lover's attempts to rescue him, is executed.