About to sign the marriage license, Jean, the village boy, changes his mind, leaves the guests and returns home. The bride, Jeanette, both pretty and wise, is still in love despite the humiliation and promises to win back the man she wishes to marry. She achieves her aim during some amusing scenes, at first fast moving, then slowing down until the final reconciliation. What threatened to be a mediocre story of peasant life, turned into a charming work of art by virtue of the sometimes light music, but always distinguished, touching, spirited and full of cheerful turns.
Many tunes still enjoy lasting popularity.
The overture is a significant example with the opening bars recalling the peeling of bells, followed by the rapid development of some of the themes of the plot. The curtain opens on one of the rooms in Jean's house. After this warning, and intent on leading a bachelor's life, Jean is surprised to be visited by Jeanette. The girl does not take him to task, but only wants to know the reason for his sudden refusal. Then in a brisk allegro, Jeanette expresses her disdain and promises to seek revenge.