TOEFL Integrated Writing Practice Test 058Some Rich Guy

Toward the end of his life, the Chevalier de Seingalt (1725–1798) composed an extensive memoir detailing his life and adventures. Although the Chevalier was a somewhat controversial figure, his memoir holds value as a historical resource on European society in the eighteenth century, as he encountered many notable individuals, including kings and writers. However, some critics have questioned the memoir’s reliability, arguing that the Chevalier exaggerated or fabricated various events to make his life appear more thrilling and glamorous than it truly was.

One example is the Chevalier’s claim of wealth while residing in Switzerland, where he reportedly spent lavishly on parties and gambling. Recently discovered evidence suggests that he borrowed large sums of money from a Swiss merchant. Critics contend that if the Chevalier had genuinely been wealthy, he would not have needed to take out such loans.

Critics also doubt the accuracy of the conversations between the Chevalier and the famous writer Voltaire, which are detailed in the memoir. While it is undisputed that the two met and conversed, critics argue that the memoir cannot accurately reflect these dialogues, as it was written many years later. They believe it would have been impossible for the Chevalier to recall the exact words spoken during lengthy conversations held so long before.

Lastly, critics have challenged the memoir’s account of the Chevalier’s escape from a well-known prison in Venice, Italy. The Chevalier claimed he escaped by using a metal tool to create a hole in the ceiling and climbing through the roof. Critics, however, argue that while this version makes for an entertaining story, it is more probable that the Chevalier bribed his way to freedom. They note that he had several influential friends in Venice who could have arranged such a bribe.