XVI explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Humanity as Destructive Force

  Gobo's naive praise of humans contrasts with the old stag's sorrowful reaction, highlighting the danger and loss inherent in human contact.

• Community and Isolation

  The animals gather to hear Gobo's story, but his experience with humans has set him apart, creating a sense of isolation despite the crowd.

Characters to notice

• Gobo

  Returns and tells the other animals about his time with humans, praising their kindness and describing the comforts of captivity.

• Faline

  Questions Gobo eagerly about his experiences, showing curiosity and concern.

• Bambi

  Interrupts Gobo to explain the meaning of 'carry' using the squirrel as an example.

• the Hare

  Present among the listeners, lifting his ears in astonishment at Gobo's story.

• the squirrel

  Tries repeatedly to interrupt and share his own story about a cousin, but is silenced by the others.

• the old Prince

  Appears silently, watches Gobo with deep sadness, and calls him 'poor thing' before leaving.

Key passages

• “You all think He’s wicked. But He isn’t wicked. If He loves anybody or if anybody serves Him, He’s good to him. Wonderfully good! Nobody in the world can be as kind as He can.”

  Gobo argues that humans are not evil; they are kind to those who serve them, and no one can match their goodness.

  Gobo's defense of humans reveals his complete trust and the divide between his view and the forest's fear.

• “The old stag looked at Gobo for a long time, piercingly and sadly. 'You poor thing!' he said softly at last, and turned and was gone.”

  The old stag gazed at Gobo with sorrow and pity, then quietly called him pitiable before leaving.

  The old stag's reaction underscores the tragic misunderstanding Gobo has about his captivity.