Conan Stories · Chapter
II: The Tree of Death explained
Conan is crucified by Constantius outside the walls of Khauran after being betrayed and captured during a coup.
What happens
Conan is crucified by Constantius outside the walls of Khauran after being betrayed and captured during a coup. He endures torture and thirst, but is eventually rescued by Olgerd Vladislav and his nomads, who cut him down and test his endurance.
Themes in this chapter
Survival and Individualism
Conan's endurance on the cross and his rescue by Olgerd highlight the theme of individual toughness and survival against overwhelming odds.
Power and Corruption
Constantius's seizure of power and the false queen's betrayal illustrate the corrupting influence of power.
Honor and Loyalty
Conan's loyalty to the true queen and his defiance of Constantius underscore the theme of honor.
Characters to notice
- Conan
Crucified and left to die; rescued by Olgerd's band; shows immense fortitude.
- Olgerd Vladislav
Outlaw chief who orders Conan cut down and tests his toughness.
- Constantius
Voivode who orchestrated the coup and crucified Conan.
- Taramis
Queen of Khauran; mentioned as having been replaced by an impostor during the coup.
- Djebal
Nomad who cuts down the cross and removes the spikes from Conan's hands.
Key passages
“If he's worthy to ride with me he'll survive it. If not, then he doesn't deserve to live. Cut!”
Olgerd declares that Conan must prove his worth by surviving the fall of the cross.
Demonstrates Olgerd's harsh code of merit and Conan's trial by ordeal.
“I am sorry, captain, that I cannot remain to ease your last hours, but I have duties to perform in yonder city—I must not keep your delicious queen waiting!”
Constantius mockingly bids Conan farewell, hinting at his liaison with the false queen.
Highlights Constantius's cruelty and the political betrayal.
“The city had betrayed him—trapped him into circumstances that left him hanging to a wooden cross like a hare nailed to a tree.”
Conan feels betrayed by Khauran, which led to his crucifixion.
Captures Conan's sense of betrayal and desire for vengeance.