A Voyage to Arcturus · Chapter
XIX: Sullenbode explained
Maskull, Corpang, and Sullenbode journey across the ridge toward Adage.
What happens
Maskull, Corpang, and Sullenbode journey across the ridge toward Adage. Sullenbode reveals her willingness to sacrifice herself for love, and Maskull recounts his adventures on Tormance. The chapter culminates in a vision of Muspel-light and thunderous drum beats, which only Maskull perceives.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Its Dangers
Sullenbode's love for Maskull is portrayed as wild, sacrificial, and potentially destructive, with Corpang warning of its dangers.
The Nature of God and Creation
The vision of Muspel-light and the drum beats suggest a supernatural or divine presence, hinting at the ultimate source of creation.
Transformation and Growth
Maskull's journey and Sullenbode's awakening from her 'old state' reflect personal transformation and the search for higher meaning.
Characters to notice
- Maskull
Travels with Sullenbode and Corpang, recounts his journey, and experiences a vision of Muspel-light.
- Sullenbode
Guides Maskull and Corpang, speaks of love as sacrifice, and expresses willingness to die for Maskull.
- Corpang
Accompanies Maskull and Sullenbode, criticizes Sullenbode's love, and climbs ahead toward Adage.
- Haunte
Mentioned as having been killed; Maskull feels guilt for stealing his protecting light.
Key passages
“Love is that which is perfectly willing to disappear and become nothing, for the sake of the beloved.”
Sullenbode defines love as a complete self-sacrifice for the beloved.
Sullenbode explains her view of love to Maskull and Corpang.
“You women are a sacrificing lot. You know I can't leave you like this.”
Maskull acknowledges women's tendency toward sacrifice and feels compelled to stay with Sullenbode.
Maskull responds to Sullenbode's hint at self-sacrifice.
“Oh, if you could only see inside my mind, Maskull! You would see strange things. … This love is quite different from what I thought.”
Sullenbode confesses that her love for Maskull is overwhelming and unlike anything she expected.
Sullenbode expresses the confusing intensity of her feelings.