Based on the novel of the same name by Jacques Chardonne, the film is set in the early 20th century. The story covers thirty years in the life of Jean, a Protestant minister who leaves his wife (Isabelle Huppert) for Pauline (Emmanuelle Béart), the niece of one of his parishioners. Abandoning his career in the church, he sets up home with her in Switzerland. Following the death of an uncle he moves to Limoges, where he takes over the running of the family porcelain factory.