Pelicot is indeed all those things and more. But her case may not be the catalyst for rape victims to come forward that people hope it will. Pelicot's case was indisputable. Most sexual assault cases are not so clear-cut. It’s possible the Pelicot case has set a threshold of proof so high it might stop survivors from coming forward.

The trial of the rapists of Gisele Pelicot afforded us a glimpse into the abyss of toxic masculinity. The next morning, it is the first thing the lawyers, journalists, family members, and the 51 men accused of raping Gisele Pelicot see as they enter the court building.