P is for Philippe de Clermont
*Book cover art property of Deborah Harkness and Penguin Random House
Woven into the rich tapestry of the world of Deborah Harkness’s All Souls Series, there are characters that are so unbelievably lifelike and loveable that you would want to invite them over for dinner for a chance at hearing their life’s story firsthand. Despite not being one the main protagonists, Philippe de Clermont left an enduring mark on my journey through the All Souls books and has earned a special place in my heart.
Philippe is only mentioned in conversations between characters in book one of the series: A Discovery of Witches. He finally makes an appearance in book 2: Shadow of Night. Philippe is a complex character with depth, and he is crucial to the movement of the plot. At his most basic, Philippe de Clermont is a vampire, the Patriarch and Progenitor of the Clermont vampiric bloodline. He is husband to Ysabeau de Clermont, vampire father to a host of children, and stepfather to one of our main protagonists, Matthew Clermont.
Philippe de Clermont is a compelling force of nature. As a vampire who has lived for over two millennia, his experiences and wisdom add layers of depth to his character. Philippe’s past is also a mosaic of historical events and personal tragedies that shape his actions and decisions. The complexity of this character comes from his ability to balance his vampire instincts with a deeply rooted sense of honor and responsibility.
Philippe’s leadership qualities are unmatched. As the head of the de Clermont family, he commands respect and loyalty. At first glance he comes across as manipulative, but his strategic mind and ability to see the bigger picture make him indispensable to his allies and formidable to his enemies. Philippe’s wisdom is not just about knowledge but also about understanding the intricacies of relationships and politics. He is a master of diplomacy and often uses his skills to maintain peace and order.
What makes Philippe truly fascinating is his blend of strength and vulnerability. He is a warrior, capable of immense physical power, yet he is also a loving husband and father. Philippe’s relationships with his family, especially with Ysabeau, showcase his capacity for deep love and affection. His vulnerability comes through in his moments of introspection and the pain he carries from past losses. This balance of strength and vulnerability makes him a relatable and deeply human character, despite his supernatural nature.
Philippe also possess a strong moral compass. This is yet another reason why he is one of my favorite characters. He believes in justice and fairness, often going to great lengths to protect the innocent and uphold the principles he stands by. Philippe’s sense of duty extends beyond his family to the entire community. both supernatural and human. He is willing to make difficult decisions and sacrifices for the greater good, which makes him a true hero in every sense.
Philippe de Clermont is a character who embodies the perfect blend of complexity, strength, wisdom, and vulnerability. His leadership, moral integrity, and enduring legacy make him a standout figure in The All-Souls Series. It is his multifaceted nature and unwavering commitment to his principles that make Philippe one of my favorite characters in the series. Every time I revisit the books, I find myself drawn to his story, eager to uncover more layers of this remarkable character
