Final answer:
Armand Aubigny fell in love with Désirée at first sight, overcome by her beauty against the backdrop of Southern Louisiana. Their romantic encounter underscored the sudden and unpredictable nature of love in literature of that time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Armand Aubigny fell in love with Désirée under rather impulsive circumstances. Armand was smitten when he saw Désirée standing against a stone pillar. It was a moment of acute infatuation, where the beauty of Désirée, coupled with the essence of a picturesque Southern Louisiana setting, caused emotions to eclipse reason, and love was declared in a spur of the moment.
Interestingly, in literature of that era, love often follows this narrative of being struck suddenly. This trope emphasizes the unpredictable and overwhelming nature of affection and attraction. The love at first sight scenario implies a destined connection, suggesting that matters of the heart are driven by forces beyond the realm of rational thought.
Armand's sense of ownership and pride in his lineage also played a role in his immediate decision to pursue Désirée, as her mysterious origin ironically made her more appealing in a society fixated on heritage and status. Ultimately, this romantic encounter set the stage for subsequent revelations and events that underscore the complexities within the themes of identity, love, and societal norms.