Domnei · Chapter
XXVIII: How Perion Saw Melicent explained
At dawn, Melicent is led to the turrets of Nacumera by Ahasuerus and Orestes.
What happens
At dawn, Melicent is led to the turrets of Nacumera by Ahasuerus and Orestes. Perion, hidden in the grass, sees her and is reminded of their first meeting. He sings a waking-song to her, risking death. Ahasuerus convinces Orestes not to kill Perion, as his death would end the siege prematurely. Melicent is returned to her apartments, guarded by eunuchs.
Themes in this chapter
Woman-Worship and Domnei
Perion's song and risk of death to honor Melicent exemplify the ideal of devoted service to a beloved lady.
Self-Sacrifice and Redemption
Perion willingly exposes himself to danger, singing to Melicent as an act of selfless devotion.
Beauty and Its Perils
Melicent's beauty is the cause of her captivity and the ongoing battle, with men dying 'because her beauty was so great.'
Characters to notice
- Melicent
Standing on the turrets of Nacumera, attired in white silk with silver bands, her hair blazing in the sunlight.
- Perion de la Forêt
Kneels in the grass, sees Melicent, and sings a waking-song to her, risking death.
- Ahasuerus
Conducts Melicent to the turrets and later advises Orestes not to kill Perion to prolong the siege.
- Orestes
Accompanies Ahasuerus, initially wants to kill Perion but is persuaded by Ahasuerus to spare him.
Key passages
“The manner of the torment of Melicent was this: A little before dawn she was conducted by Ahasuerus and Orestes to the outermost turrets of Nacumera...”
Melicent's ordeal began at dawn when Ahasuerus and Orestes led her to the highest towers of Nacumera.
Describes the start of Melicent's public display.
“What Perion saw was like a church window when the sun shines through it.”
Perion's vision of Melicent was as beautiful and transcendent as a sunlit stained-glass window.
Highlights the idealized, almost sacred perception Perion has of Melicent.
“Sang Perion, 'Rei glorios, verais lums e clardatz—' or, in other wording: 'Thou King of glory, veritable light, all-powerful deity!...'”
Perion sang a dawn song, calling on God to aid his beloved and declaring that the night of separation is ending.
Perion's song is a troubadour-style alba, expressing hope and devotion.
“My fair sweet friend, since you were taken from me I have not ever been of a divided mind. I have kept faith, I have not failed you.”
Perion assures Melicent that he has remained completely faithful and unwavering since her capture.
Emphasizes Perion's steadfast loyalty.
“But Ahasuerus said: 'No, seignior, not by my advice. If you slay this Perion of the Forest, his retainers will speedily abandon a desperate siege and retreat to the coast.'”
Ahasuerus argued that killing Perion would cause his army to flee, ending the siege prematurely.
Ahasuerus's strategic reasoning saves Perion's life.