Death Comes for the Archbishop · Chapter
The Old Order explained
Bishop Latour makes his first official visit to Taos, the largest and richest parish in his diocese, where the powerful and rebellious Padre Martínez holds sway.
What happens
Bishop Latour makes his first official visit to Taos, the largest and richest parish in his diocese, where the powerful and rebellious Padre Martínez holds sway. He observes Martínez's physical force, imperious will, and the corrupt means by which he acquired land from hanged Taos Indians. After a tense visit, Latour calls on Kit Carson's wife, learns more about the Penitentes, and returns to Santa Fe to find Father Vaillant with news that the vicarate has been raised to a diocese.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Clash and Harmony
The chapter highlights the tension between the American Bishop Latour and the native Mexican priest Martínez, representing the clash of European and local traditions.
Tradition vs. Change
Padre Martínez embodies the old order resisting American influence, while Bishop Latour represents the new ecclesiastical authority and the coming of change.
Faith and Doubt
The contrast between Martínez's powerful but corrupt use of religion and Latour's more disciplined, reform-minded faith is explored.
Characters to notice
- Bishop Jean Marie Latour
Makes his first official visit to Taos, observes Padre Martínez's power and corruption, and later visits Señora Carson before returning to Santa Fe.
- Jacinto
Accompanies Bishop Latour on the ride through the mountains to Taos and points out the approaching cavalcade.
- Padre Antonio José Martínez
The powerful and defiant priest of Taos, who instigated the Taos revolt, acquired Indian lands through deceit, and openly challenges Bishop Latour's authority.
- Kit Carson
Mentioned as having helped Bishop Latour understand conditions in Taos; his ranch is visited by the Bishop, though Carson himself is away buying sheep.
- Magdalena Valdez
Mentioned as the woman rescued from a brutal husband, now living happily with the Sisters in Santa Fe; Señora Carson sends her a piece of lacework.
- Father Joseph Vaillant
Awaiting Bishop Latour in Santa Fe; they discuss the elevation of the vicarate to a diocese and the Bishop's reception in Taos.
Key passages
“You can have your French priest of Taos, and I will have the people!”
Padre Martínez defiantly tells Bishop Latour that he values the loyalty of the local people over any French-appointed clergy.
Martínez asserts his power and rejection of Latour's authority.
“If you try to introduce European civilization here and change our old ways, to interfere with the secret dances of the Indians, let us say, or abolish the bloody rites of the Penitentes, I foretell an early death for you.”
Martínez warns Latour that attempting to reform local religious practices will lead to his demise.
Highlights the theme of cultural clash and the danger of challenging entrenched traditions.
“He was a man of the old order, a son of Abiquiu, and his day was over.”
Padre Martínez belonged to a bygone era, and his influence was waning with the American occupation.
Summarizes the theme of tradition vs. change and the end of Martínez's era.