Bellarion the Fortunate · Chapter
II: Facino Cane explained
Bellarion is brought before Facino Cane after being captured by the Duke of Milan.
What happens
Bellarion is brought before Facino Cane after being captured by the Duke of Milan. Facino, intrigued by Bellarion's audacity and his claim of being Facino's son by adoption, interrogates him. Bellarion recounts his true story, including his attempt to save Pusterla and his escape from the Duke's dogs. Facino, amused and impressed by Bellarion's resourcefulness and courage, decides to protect him, ordering that he be washed and fed. The chapter also includes Bellarion's first impressions of Milan, its architecture, and the oppressive rule of Gian Maria Visconti.
Themes in this chapter
Fortune and Fate
Bellarion's bold gamble in adopting Facino Cane's name and his reliance on fortune to escape danger highlight the theme of fortune and fate.
Deception and Identity
Bellarion's claim of being Facino's son by adoption and his use of deception to save himself underscore the theme of deception and identity.
Chivalry and Idealism
Bellarion's attempt to save Pusterla's life without counting the risk to himself is portrayed as a gallant, chivalrous act.
Characters to notice
- Bellarion
Bellarion is brought before Facino Cane, tells his true story, and is taken under Facino's protection.
- Facino Cane
Facino Cane interrogates Bellarion, is amused by his frankness and courage, and decides to protect him.
- Filippo Maria Visconti
The Duke of Milan is present during the interrogation, but Facino Cane dismisses him with contempt.
- Squarcia Giramo
Squarcia Giramo carries Bellarion on his horse into Milan.
- Lorenzaccio da Trino
Mentioned as the person to whom Bellarion previously told his true story.
- Giovanni Pusterla
Mentioned as the person Bellarion attempted to save, which earned him Facino's respect.
- Messer Francesco Lonate
Mentioned as holding the Duke's stirrup when the company dismounts.
Key passages
“And so you adopted me for your father. Why, sir, if every man could choose his parents …”
Facino Cane remarks on Bellarion's audacity in claiming him as a father by adoption.
Facino's initial reaction to Bellarion's claim, showing both amusement and skepticism.
“Your attempt to save Pusterla's life without counting the risk to yourself was a gallant thing, for which I honour you, and for which you deserve well of me.”
Facino Cane praises Bellarion for his courageous attempt to save Pusterla.
Facino's respect for Bellarion's bravery leads him to offer protection.
“I am called Bellarion, my lord.”
Bellarion gives his name to Facino Cane.
Bellarion's introduction to Facino, establishing his identity.
“From me you shall have the protection you invoked when you adopted me, and tomorrow, well-accredited and equipped, you shall resume the road to Pavia and your studies.”
Facino Cane promises to protect Bellarion and send him on his way to Pavia.
Facino's decision to honor Bellarion's invocation of his name.
