# XVI explained — Bambi

> Chapter companion for Bambi by Felix Salten.

## What happens

Gobo returns and recounts his experiences living with humans, describing their kindness and the comforts of captivity. The other animals listen in amazement, but the old stag appears and silently observes Gobo with sorrow, finally calling him 'poor thing' before departing.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bambi_se/chapters/xvi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bambi_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bambi_se/chapters