Hypatia · Chapter
XXI: The Squire-Bishop explained
Raphael Aben-Ezra visits Synesius, the Bishop of Cyrene, who is grieving the loss of his last child to pestilence and the devastation of his homeland by barbarian invaders.
What happens
Raphael Aben-Ezra visits Synesius, the Bishop of Cyrene, who is grieving the loss of his last child to pestilence and the devastation of his homeland by barbarian invaders. Synesius, though overwhelmed by sorrow, offers hospitality and tries to draw out Raphael's troubles. Raphael, restless and despairing, hints at his inner turmoil and a dream involving Jewish rabbis and the Song of Solomon, while Synesius reflects on his past as a hunter and his current resolve to die at his post.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Decline
Synesius laments the destruction of his ancestral heritage and the collapse of order, symbolizing the broader decline of classical civilization.
Philosophy vs. Faith
Raphael's doubt about philosophy and Hypatia contrasts with Synesius's Christian resolve, highlighting the tension between intellectual skepticism and religious commitment.
Characters to notice
- Raphael Aben-Ezra
Visits Synesius seeking comfort, but is moody and evasive, hinting at a dream and his disillusionment with philosophy and Hypatia.
- Synesius
The Bishop of Cyrene, grieving the loss of his last child and his homeland, yet still hospitable and eager to help Raphael.
Key passages
“I have done with philosophy. To fight like a Heracleid, and to die like a bishop, is all I have left—except Hypatia, the perfect, the wise!”
I've given up on philosophy. All I have left is to fight bravely and die as a bishop, except for my admiration for Hypatia.
Synesius expresses his disillusionment with philosophy and his commitment to his faith and martial courage.
“I am selfishly pouring out my own sorrows, instead of listening to yours.”
I'm being selfish by talking about my own grief instead of hearing about your troubles.
Synesius acknowledges his self-absorption in his grief, showing his awareness of Raphael's needs.