Hadrian the Seventh · Chapter
XI explained
Pope Hadrian VII continues his unconventional papacy, dealing with a portrait painter out of compassion, moving to a lakeside palace for the summer, experiencing a profound moment of love and self-realization through an encounter with a boy
What happens
Pope Hadrian VII continues his unconventional papacy, dealing with a portrait painter out of compassion, moving to a lakeside palace for the summer, experiencing a profound moment of love and self-realization through an encounter with a boy, dispatching envoys to America, receiving the Liblab deputation, and navigating the political tensions with the King of Italy while managing the zealous protection of Sir Iulo.
Themes in this chapter
Art and Creativity
The Pope's interaction with the painter Alfred Elms explores the tension between artistic skill and spiritual depth, as Hadrian critiques the painter's lack of soul.
Love and Sacrifice
Hadrian experiences a profound moment of love and self-sacrifice after a boy's innocent remark, leading to a new understanding of his role.
Power and Corruption
The Pope's handling of the Liblab deputation and his political maneuvering with the King of Italy highlight the complexities of papal power.
Characters to notice
- Hadrian VII
The Pope shows compassion to a struggling painter, experiences a transformative moment of love, and engages in diplomatic and personal reflections.
- Alfred Elms
An English Catholic painter commissioned to paint the Pope's portrait, receives payment and a blessing, unaware of the Pope's true feelings.
- Percy Van Kristen
Young Cardinal who walks with the Pope on Lammas Day, reminiscing about their past and discussing the political situation in Italy.
- Sir Iulo
A gentleman of the court who practices knife-fighting to protect the Pope from the Liblab deputation, but is ordered to desist.
- Jerry Sant
Member of the Liblab deputation, leaves the Vatican dazed and suspicious of being bribed.
- Mrs. Crowe
Another member of the Liblab deputation, thrilled by her encounter with the Pope.
- Mariano Ragna
Cardinal present during the discussion about the requiem for King Umberto.
- Cardinal Talacryn
Cardinal involved in the discussion about the requiem for King Umberto.
Key passages
“Note please, that We are not uttering infallible dogma, but the fallible opinion of a private clergyman, weak-kneed perhaps, or worldly. We know no more than this—that Christ died for all men.”
The Pope clarifies that he is speaking as a fallible individual, not infallibly, and states his belief that Christ died for everyone.
Hadrian emphasizes his humility and theological stance on universal salvation.
“We request you immediately to publish the news that tomorrow at ten o’clock the Supreme Pontiff will sing a requiem in St. Peter’s for the repose of the soul of Umberto the Fearless King of Italy.”
The Pope orders the cardinals to announce a requiem mass for the late King Umberto of Italy.
This action demonstrates Hadrian's willingness to engage with political and royal figures.
“It was Love—yes, that was quintessential Love, from the clear eyes and the stainless lips of childhood—to keep one’s troubles oneself. For in that way one relieved others.”
Hadrian realizes that true love involves bearing one's own burdens to spare others, inspired by a child's innocent remark.
This moment marks a spiritual and emotional turning point for the Pope.
“I guess the air of this village suits you, Holy Father. You look like twenty cents this evening.”
Cardinal Percy comments that the Pope appears refreshed and vibrant after his time in the lakeside village.
A lighthearted observation that leads to Hadrian sharing his transformative experience.
“Do you mean that you are going to rip them up? ... Iulo. No. Understand? No.”
The Pope forbids Sir Iulo from using violence against the Liblab deputation, instructing him to bury his knife and learn to fight with fists instead.
Hadrian rejects vigilante justice and promotes non-lethal methods of protection.
