Guignol Apache (“apache” being a slang word for a wrongdoer in the 1900s) was published in Henry de Graffigny’s collection “Théâtre de Guignol”, which is concerned with the “Guignol parisien” (Parisian version of Guignol). The plays in the collection were written to be performed by private individuals. Many “practical information” are given on the settings, the distribution of roles, costumes and accessories, and advice on the technical execution of the show is given as well.

Pintrus is played by the puppet of Pierrot; the Baron de Pierrafeu by that of Cassandre; Grinchitoux by the puppet of Guignol’s son; etc. According to Graffigny, only one puppeteer is needed for this play.

This eventful melodrama was inspired by plays about outlaws. However, the representation of violence is not as graphic here. The “torture scene” consists in the pulling of a loose tooth. And the only death shown on stage is dealt with in a solemn way. Guignol’s final speech underlines the moral dimension of the ending.

Guignol is riddled with debts and can no longer provide for his wife and his daughter Madelon. To get him out of trouble, his friend Grinchitoux suggests that he become an “apache” – that is, a thief – like him. Madelon begs her boyfriend Pintrus to prevent it. Grinchitoux takes Guignol to the edge of the forest, where he is asked to cause accidents and rob the travellers. When Guignol refuses, Grinchitoux threatens him with a gun. Pintrus tries to take Guignol back home, but the latter drives him off. The Baron de Pierrafeu’s car crashes. His valet Trouillard (meaning “lily-livered”) flees, and the Baron is taken inside a cave. Grinchitoux tortures him, until the Baron reveals where his money is hidden and hands him the key to his castle. The Baron is then left for dead. While Grinchitoux fails to find the money, Guignol, who was keeping watch, repents. Pintrus arrives and urges Guignol to flee, as the police is on its way – led by the Baron, who is still alive. Grinchitoux kills the valet Trouillard, then the Baron. He is apprehended by the Gendarme (policeman). Guignol is safe and alive, and he has become a perfect husband. He agrees to Madelon and Pintrus’ marriage. Grinchitoux is sentenced to death. He makes an attempt at escaping, but Guignol catches him, and he is hanged. Guignol treats the policeman and the hangman to a drink.