King Solomon’s Mines · Chapter
X: The Witch-Hunt explained
Infadoos explains the tyranny of King Twala and the brutal witch-hunt ritual.
What happens
Infadoos explains the tyranny of King Twala and the brutal witch-hunt ritual. Umbopa reveals himself as Ignosi, the rightful heir to the Kukuana throne, by showing the snake tattoo. Infadoos pledges to rally the chiefs and regiments for a rebellion. The chapter culminates in the horrific witch-hunt where Gagool and her witch-doctresses 'smell out' and execute dozens of victims, with Twala counting each death.
Themes in this chapter
Violence and Warfare
The witch-hunt is a brutal display of state-sanctioned violence, with mass executions ordered by King Twala.
Superstition and Magic
Gagool and the witch-doctresses use ritualistic dancing and divination to 'smell out' wizards, demonstrating the power of superstition in Kukuana society.
Loyalty and Brotherhood
Infadoos pledges loyalty to Ignosi, and the white men stand by him as friends, forming a bond of brotherhood against tyranny.
Characters to notice
- Allan Quatermain
Narrates the chapter; questions Infadoos about Twala's cruelty and later observes the witch-hunt with horror.
- Infadoos
Explains the tyranny of Twala and the witch-hunt; later recognizes Ignosi and agrees to rally support for his claim.
- Ignosi
Reveals his true identity as the rightful king by showing the snake tattoo; recounts his survival and journey.
- Twala
Presides over the witch-hunt, ordering executions and counting the dead.
- Gagool
Commands the witch-doctresses during the witch-hunt; orchestrates the 'smelling out' of victims.
- Scragga
Echoes the kill command with a hollow chuckle during the executions.
- Sir Henry Curtis
Present during the witch-hunt; wears the chain armour sent by Twala.
- Captain John Good
Present during the witch-hunt; comments on the silence of the army and later compares Twala to Madame Defarge.
Key passages
“It is the great witch-hunt, and many will be smelt out as wizards and slain. No man's life is safe.”
Infadoos warns that the witch-hunt will result in many innocent people being accused and killed.
Sets the stage for the brutal ritual.
“I am Ignosi, rightful king of the Kukuanas!”
Umbopa declares his true identity as the legitimate heir to the throne.
Key revelation that changes the political landscape.
“Kill! said the king. Kill! squeaked Gagool. Kill! reechoed Scragga, with a hollow chuckle.”
The king, Gagool, and Scragga all command the execution of the accused wizard.
Illustrates the collective cruelty of the ruling powers.