Allan Quatermain · Chapter
The Frowning City explained
The adventurers approach the magnificent city of Milosis, also known as the Frowning City, and are awed by its grand architecture, especially the great staircase built by the legendary engineer Rademas.
What happens
The adventurers approach the magnificent city of Milosis, also known as the Frowning City, and are awed by its grand architecture, especially the great staircase built by the legendary engineer Rademas. Captain Good dons his full naval uniform to make a good first impression, much to the amazement of his companions and the delight of Alphonse. The group prepares to enter the city, observing its red granite buildings, white marble temple, and the palace of the queens.
Themes in this chapter
Civilization vs. Wilderness
The contrast between the polished, uniformed Good and the rugged surroundings emphasizes the tension between European civilization and the wild African landscape.
Adventure and Exploration
The discovery of the frowning city and its wonders captures the spirit of exploration and the thrill of encountering the unknown.
Characters to notice
- Captain Good
Transforms himself into a splendid figure by donning his full-dress naval uniform, much to the astonishment of his companions.
- Alphonse
Helps Good with his grooming and expresses delight at his appearance, comparing him to his heroic grandfather.
- Umslopogaas
Amused by Good's transformation, comparing him to a blue jay spreading his tail.
- Sir Henry Curtis
Dons his spare tweed suit and looks magnificent, a contrast to Good's formal attire.
- Allan Quatermain
Humbly notes his own insignificant appearance despite his efforts to dress well.
Key passages
“No wonder they named it the 'Frowning City,' for certainly those mighty works in solid granite did seem to frown down upon our littleness in their sombre splendour.”
The city's imposing granite structures made the travelers feel small and insignificant.
Highlights the awe-inspiring scale of the architecture.
“Oh, Bougwan ! I always thought thee an ugly little man, and fat—fat as the cows at calving time; and now thou art like a blue jay when he spreads his tail out.”
Umslopogaas teases Good, saying he used to think him ugly and fat, but now he looks as splendid as a blue jay with its tail fanned out.
Shows the cultural exchange and humor between the Zulu warrior and the English naval officer.