Hadrian the Seventh · Chapter
XXIV explained
On the festival of St.
What happens
On the festival of St. George, Hadrian receives sovereigns on the anniversary of His pontificate. After the ceremony, the Northern Emperor informs Him of the capture of Kronstadt and discusses the Southern Emperor's absence. Hadrian decides to visit Victor Emanuel, and walks with the Northern Emperor through Rome. Later, during a return procession, Jerry Sant shoots Hadrian. The Pope forgives him, receives last rites, and dies, blessing the city and the world.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Corruption
The chapter contrasts the temporal power of sovereigns with Hadrian's spiritual authority, culminating in His renunciation of vengeance and forgiveness of His assassin.
Love and Sacrifice
Hadrian's forgiveness of Jerry Sant and His peaceful death embody sacrificial love, echoing Christ's example.
Death and Mortality
The assassination and Hadrian's serene death highlight the fragility of life and the peace found in faith.
Identity and Self-Perception
Hadrian's interaction with Prince Filiberto reveals His self-awareness and humility, as He reflects on being seen as a 'frightful old fool.'
Characters to notice
- Hadrian VII
Celebrates the anniversary of His pontificate, receives sovereigns, walks with the Northern Emperor, is shot by Jerry Sant, forgives him, and dies after giving the Apostolic Benediction.
- William II
The Northern Emperor announces the capture of Kronstadt, discusses the Southern Emperor's absence, and accompanies Hadrian on a walk through Rome.
- Victor Emanuel
The Southern Emperor is absent from the anniversary reception due to a personal idea; Hadrian decides to visit him.
- Jerry Sant
Assassinates Hadrian by shooting Him; is forgiven and freed by the Pope before being torn by the crowd.
- Mariano Ragna
Whispers to Hadrian about the Northern Emperor's early departure from Palazzo Caffarelli.
- Cardinal Carvale
Describes the sovereigns as radiating from Hadrian; administers absolution and the sacrament of the dying.
- Percy Van Kristen
Kneels before Hadrian and holds the Sacred Host during the dying rites.
- Prince Filiberto
The fair Prince Filiberto approaches Hadrian with innocent questions about being the White Father.
Key passages
“Are You the White Father which formerly I have seen in somebody's forest?”
Prince Filiberto asks Hadrian if He is the same White Father he met in a forest.
The prince's innocent question highlights Hadrian's dual identity as both a remembered figure and the Pope.
“Son, you are forgiven: you are free.”
Hadrian tells Jerry Sant that he is forgiven and released.
This moment of forgiveness underscores the theme of mercy over vengeance.
“Capax imperii nisi imperâsset.”
The College of Cardinals sums up Hadrian as someone who would have been an ideal ruler if he had not ruled.
This epigram from Tacitus reflects the irony of Hadrian's papacy.
