# The Search for the Cup explained — Armed with Madness

> Chapter companion for Armed with Madness by Mary Butts.

## What happens

The morning after the confrontation, the household searches for the missing cup. Carston, feeling physically healthy but emotionally troubled, participates in the search. The cup is not found, and Picus invites Scylla to Gault Cliff, deepening Carston's jealousy and resentment. Carston resolves to follow them or engage Felix.

## Themes in this chapter

### Post-War Disillusionment and Alienation

Carston's internal conflict and sense of dislocation reflect a broader post-war disillusionment, as he struggles with jealousy and a desire for control.

### Sexuality and Desire

Carston's growing desire for Scylla is intertwined with jealousy and a sense of possession, highlighting the theme of sexual tension.

### Power, Manipulation, and Jealousy

Carston's plan to 'rescue' Scylla from Picus reveals his manipulative intent and the power dynamics at play.

## Character check-ins

### Dudley Carston

Feels physically well despite inner turmoil; desires Scylla more; becomes jealous of Picus; considers rescuing Scylla as a claim on her.

### Scylla Taverner

Participates in the search; agrees to go with Picus to Gault Cliff; her passion for Picus is noted by Carston.

### Picus

Apologizes for losing his temper; suggests the cup's absence; invites Scylla to Gault Cliff; his right hand is described as red and swollen.

### Felix Taverner

Searches in the attic; his room contains leopard skins.

### Ross

Asks Picus how he lost the others; his room has a Buddha in a red lacquer shrine.

### Clarence

His room is full of frivolities; Carston pities him without humor.

## Key lines

> Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.

Carston recalls a biblical injunction against witches, linking his resentment of Picus to a sense of moral righteousness.

_This phrase reflects Carston's internal justification for his jealousy and desire to possess Scylla._

> Rescue her from what? From passion for a tall delicate man with coarse hands.

Carston questions what he would be rescuing Scylla from, concluding it is her passion for Picus.

_Highlights Carston's self-deception and the objectification of Scylla in his fantasy._

## Links

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