Hadrian the Seventh · Chapter
XXI explained
Hadrian issues the 'Epistle to the Princes,' outlining a radical restructuring of Europe, including the revival of the Roman Empire under two emperors and the reallocation of territories.
What happens
Hadrian issues the 'Epistle to the Princes,' outlining a radical restructuring of Europe, including the revival of the Roman Empire under two emperors and the reallocation of territories. He also appoints Cardinal Talacryn as Archbishop of Pimlico and deals with the fallout from Mrs. Crowe's calumny, as she breaks with Jerry Sant. The Pope consults with cardinals and prepares for the Congress of Windsor.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Corruption
Hadrian wields absolute authority, restructuring nations and appointing bishops, while Mrs. Crowe's calumny and Jerry Sant's schemes illustrate the corrupting influence of power.
Religion and Hypocrisy
The Pope's radical teachings on self-sacrifice contrast with the political maneuvering and personal vendettas among the clergy and laity, such as Talacryn's 'officious lying' and Mrs. Crowe's deceit.
Class and Social Inequality
Hadrian's reorganization of Europe reinforces aristocratic and monarchic principles, while the common people ('collared-puppy-in-the-Tube') remain indifferent to the Pope's actions.
Characters to notice
- Hadrian VII
Issues the 'Epistle to the Princes,' appoints Talacryn to Pimlico, consults with cardinals, and works tirelessly on the reorganization of Europe.
- Cardinal Talacryn
Appointed Archbishop of Pimlico by Hadrian, discusses the succession for Caerleon, and is rebuked for his habit of suspicion and officious lying.
- Mrs. Crowe
Breaks with Jerry Sant after the failure of their schemes, feels mortified and angry, and seeks to return to obscurity.
- Jerry Sant
Separates from Mrs. Crowe after a heated argument, remaining brooding and dangerous at his hotel.
- Cardinal Nefski
Consulted by Hadrian, admits Poland might be happier as a constitutional monarchy within a federation.
- Cardinal Mundo
Speaks of Portugal's alliance with England, stating his nation has no grievances.
- Cardinal Courtleigh
Pleads age and infirmity, is relieved of his archbishopric by Hadrian, and asks to end his days in the college he founded.
- Signor Barconi
Officiates at an instrument in the apostolic antechamber until carried away in nervous collapse.
Key passages
“Truth more quickly emerges from error than from confusion.”
It is easier to find truth from a mistake than from chaos.
Hadrian justifies guiding human error rather than allowing disorder.
“A rebel was worse than the worst prince, and rebellion was worse than the worst government of the worst prince that hitherto had been.”
Rebellion is more harmful than any tyrannical ruler or oppressive regime.
Hadrian condemns rebellion, supporting monarchic authority.
“Satan finds mischief for idle hands to do.”
Idleness leads to wrongdoing.
Hadrian argues for providing occupation to prevent evil.
“Most human ills were caused by the lack of scope for energy.”
Many problems arise from not having outlets for one's energy.
The Pope emphasizes the need for productive activity.
