IX: The Story of the Navarrese explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love and Domnei (Lady-Service)

  The central theme of the chapter is Jehane's enduring love for Antoine Riczi, which persists through her forced marriage and later political power. Her devotion is framed as a form of lady-service, where love is a constant, guiding force.

• Sacrifice and Suffering

  Jehane sacrifices her power and freedom for love, while Riczi endures years of separation and humiliation. The chapter emphasizes the suffering inherent in their devotion.

• Power and Queenship

  Jehane's role as queen is explored through her political influence, her imprisonment, and her willingness to surrender power for love. The chapter contrasts her royal status with her vulnerability.

• Illusion vs. Reality

  The chapter contrasts the tinsel splendors of court life with the harsh realities of imprisonment and lost love. Jehane's golden chains symbolize the illusion of power.

Characters to notice

• Queen Jehane

  Jehane of Navarre, now Queen of England, is accused of witchcraft and imprisoned by her stepson King Henry. She reflects on her past love for Antoine Riczi and the sacrifices she made.

• Antoine Riczi

  Young Antoine Riczi, Jehane's constant lover, is recalled in the narrative of their youthful love and separation. He later becomes the Vicomte de Montbrison's heir.

• Vicomte de Montbrison

  The Vicomte, uncle to Antoine Riczi, seeks vengeance against Queen Jehane for the wrongs done to his nephew. He later switches allegiance to King Henry and uses his eloquence to rally support.

• King Henry

  King Henry, Jehane's stepson, orders her imprisonment on charges of witchcraft and seizes her lands and properties.

• Messire Peyre de Lesnerac

  De Lesnerac is sent to escort Princess Jehane to Brittany for her marriage to Duke Jehan.

• Duke Jehan

  Duke Jehan of Brittany marries the young Jehane, adoring her but unable to win her love.

• Princess Jehane

  The young Jehane, before becoming queen, is forced into marriage with Duke Jehan while pining for Antoine Riczi.

Key passages

• “I am held as a prisoner for all that my chains are of gold.”

  Although I am not in irons, I am still a captive, surrounded by wealth.

  Jehane laments her luxurious but constrained life.

• “Friend, I have no choice. I must wed with this de Montfort. I think I shall die presently.”

  I am forced to marry de Montfort, and I feel as though I will not survive it.

  Young Jehane expresses her despair at her arranged marriage.

• “To surrender absolute dominion over half Europe is a sacrifice. Assure me that it is a sacrifice, Antoine!”

  Giving up my power over half of Europe is a great loss. Tell me it matters, Antoine.

  Jehane seeks validation for her choice to abandon her throne for love.