A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court · Chapter
A Postscript by Clarence explained
Clarence recounts the aftermath of the Battle of the Sand-Belt.
What happens
Clarence recounts the aftermath of the Battle of the Sand-Belt. Hank Morgan is wounded by Sir Meliagraunce while trying to help the wounded. Merlin, disguised as an old peasant woman, curses Hank to sleep for thirteen centuries. The trapped victors succumb to the poisonous air from the dead, and Clarence records the final events.
Themes in this chapter
Technology vs. Superstition
The electric fences and dynamo represent technological superiority, yet Merlin's ancient magic ultimately overcomes Hank, highlighting the tension between progress and superstition.
Power and Corruption
The conquerors become trapped and conquered by their own defenses, illustrating how power can corrupt and lead to downfall.
Time and Mortality
Hank's thirteen-century sleep and the pervasive death from poisoned air underscore the themes of mortality and the inexorable passage of time.
Characters to notice
- Clarence
Narrates the postscript; helps carry the wounded Boss to the cave and witnesses Merlin's curse.
- Hank Morgan
Wounded by Sir Meliagraunce while aiding the fallen; falls into a deep sleep after Merlin's enchantment.
- Merlin
Disguised as an old peasant woman; casts a spell causing Hank to sleep for thirteen centuries, then dies laughing after touching an electrified wire.
- Sir Meliagraunce
The wounded knight who stabs Hank; later identified by Clarence after removing his helmet.
Key passages
“We had conquered; in turn we were conquered.”
Though we won the battle, we were ultimately defeated by the aftermath.
Clarence reflects on the ironic reversal of their victory.
“Ye were conquerors; ye are conquered! These others are perishing—you also. Ye shall all die in this place—every one—except him. He sleepeth now—and shall sleep thirteen centuries. I am Merlin!”
You thought you won, but now you are defeated. Everyone here will die except Hank, who I have put to sleep for 1,300 years. I am Merlin!
Merlin reveals his disguise and curses Hank to a long slumber.