Hadrian the Seventh · Chapter
V explained
Hadrian, exhausted from the scrutiny of Rome, rests and plans to escape to Castel Gandolfo.
What happens
Hadrian, exhausted from the scrutiny of Rome, rests and plans to escape to Castel Gandolfo. He rearranges the papal household to ensure privacy and simplicity, discusses finances with the cardinals, and extends invitations to Cardinal Courtleigh and the sorrowful Cardinal Nefski. He also examines the papal safe, contemplating his newfound power and plans for generosity.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Corruption
Hadrian examines the papal safe and financial reserves, reflecting on the immense potential and responsibility of his new power.
Isolation and Artistic Struggle
Hadrian seeks solitude and simplicity to focus on his work, rejecting the ornate and distracting papal surroundings.
Characters to notice
- Hadrian VII
Resting after the conclave, planning a retreat to Castel Gandolfo, rearranging the household for simplicity, and examining the papal safe.
- Bishop of Caerleon
Assists Hadrian by telegraphing the nuns at Castel Gandolfo and accompanying him on a tour of the rooms.
- Luigi Orezzo
Engages in a theological discussion with Hadrian about papal infallibility and the nomination of a cardinal, then retires.
- Cardinal Courtleigh
Labelled an 'academic anarchist' by Orezzo, later invited by Hadrian to Castel Gandolfo.
- Cardinal Nefski
Noted for his sorrowful appearance; Hadrian invites him to Castel Gandolfo to offer comfort.
- Cardinal Sterling
The Cardinal-Deacon of Santa Maria Nuova, who provides financial information to Hadrian and is tasked with moving the safe.
Key passages
“Being physically tired with the exertion of withstanding the concentrated gaze of Rome, He rested all the afternoon.”
Exhausted from the intense scrutiny of Rome, he spent the afternoon resting.
Highlights Hadrian's fatigue and the pressure of his new role.
“He would have clean bare spaces and simplicity without frippery. Then His mind could move.”
He wanted clean, simple spaces without decoration so he could think clearly.
Reflects Hadrian's desire for a minimalist environment conducive to work.
“With its contents, He would open a current account at the Bank of Italy. With that, and another at the Bank of England—He acquainted Himself with the tools of His new trade.”
He planned to use the money to open accounts at the Bank of Italy and the Bank of England, learning the tools of his new role.
Shows Hadrian's practical approach to managing papal finances.