Social Hygiene Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of Social Hygiene?

Hedonistic philosopher-cum-delinquent, Antonin always finds the right word to win himself both the compliments and the rebukes of his fellows. Antonin never misses a chance to exploit both the goodness and the patience of his wife, Églantine. He is also a constant source of disappointment to his sister, Solveig. Busy trying to avoid Rose the tax collector who is after his neck, Antonin cannot get his attraction and desire for the beautiful Cassiopée out of his skull. Tormented, Antonin must now devise the right scheme and the right words to apologize to Aurore, one of his victims. Between these five women, Antonin gets stuck.

Denis Côté's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Maxim Gaudette (Antonin)'s journey. Antonin never misses a chance to exploit both the goodness and the patience of his wife, Églantine.

How Does Maxim Gaudette (Antonin)'s Story End?

• Maxim Gaudette: Maxim Gaudette's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Larissa Corriveau (Solveig): Larissa Corriveau's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Évelyne Rompré (Eglantine): Évelyne Rompré's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Social Hygiene Mean?

The ending of Social Hygiene brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Maxim Gaudette's story may not satisfy all audiences.