An Outcast of the Islands · Chapter
Chapter II explained
Almayer recounts to Lingard the events of the past five weeks, detailing how Willems and Abdulla orchestrated a coup in Sambir.
What happens
Almayer recounts to Lingard the events of the past five weeks, detailing how Willems and Abdulla orchestrated a coup in Sambir. Patalolo was forced to abdicate and seek pilgrimage, Lakamba assumed power, and a Dutch flag was raised. Almayer expresses his despair and anger at Lingard's absence, blaming him for the collapse of their position.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Trust
Willems betrays Lingard and Almayer by siding with Abdulla, leading to the collapse of Lingard's influence.
Colonialism and Racial Hierarchy
The Dutch flag is raised as a symbol of colonial authority, and the white men (Willems, Lingard) manipulate local politics.
Illusion of Control and Fate
Lingard's belief in his control over Sambir is shattered; Almayer feels helpless as events unfold beyond his control.
Characters to notice
- Almayer
Narrates the coup to Lingard, expressing bitterness and helplessness.
- Captain Lingard
Returns to find his kingdom lost; listens to Almayer's account and mourns the loss of his ship.
- Willems
Leads the coup, lands at the Rajah's, hoists the Dutch flag, and acts as Abdulla's agent.
- Syed Abdulla
Arrives in Sambir, orchestrates the takeover, and hosts Patalolo on his ship.
- Rajah Patalolo
Forced to abdicate and go on pilgrimage; dies shortly after.
- Lakamba
Assumes power after Patalolo's abdication, supported by Abdulla.
Key passages
“He would ask Abdulla to let him go. Then he abused Lakamba—between sobs—and you, a little. You prevented him from asking for a flag that would have been respected—he was right there—and now when his enemies were strong he was weak, and you were not there to help him.”
Patalolo blamed Lingard for not allowing him to seek a protective flag, leaving him vulnerable to his enemies.
Almayer recounts Patalolo's lament about Lingard's absence and the lack of a protective flag.
“I felt so frightfully lonely that I stole in and took the child out of her cot and brought her here into my hammock. If it hadn’t been for her I am sure I would have gone mad; I felt so utterly alone and helpless.”
Almayer felt so isolated and desperate that he brought his daughter to his hammock for comfort.
Almayer describes his emotional state during the night of the coup.