Melmoth the Wanderer · Chapter
Chapter XIX explained
Three years after parting from Immalee, Melmoth appears in Madrid, causing unease among Spanish gentlemen who discuss his mysterious and sinister reputation.
What happens
Three years after parting from Immalee, Melmoth appears in Madrid, causing unease among Spanish gentlemen who discuss his mysterious and sinister reputation. Immalee, now a strikingly innocent and natural figure among artificial Spanish society, faints upon encountering him, and a voice whispers her name, confirming his recognition of her.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and the Gothic
Melmoth's supernatural aura is emphasized through his unearthly eyes, his ability to appear in distant places, and the ominous music that precedes him.
Temptation and Faith
Melmoth's role as a tempter is hinted at; his presence causes both awe and fear, and he is associated with seeking out the wretched or profligate.
Isolation and Alienation
Immalee's unique innocence isolates her from the artificial society around her, and Melmoth's solitary, ominous figure underscores his alienation from humanity.
Characters to notice
- Melmoth the Wanderer
Appears in Madrid, recognized by his ominous eyes and reputation; causes Immalee to faint upon their encounter.
- Immalee
Now in Spanish society, her natural innocence contrasts with artificiality; faints upon seeing Melmoth and responds to his whispered name.
Key passages
“It is well known both to him and them.”
The stranger's purpose in seeking the wretched or profligate is understood by himself and those he targets.
A deep voice confirms the sinister intent behind Melmoth's actions.
“She presented altogether a singular contrast to the measured tones, the mincing gait, and the organized uniformity of dress, and manner, and look, and feeling, of the females about her.”
Immalee's natural grace and spontaneity stood out against the artificial and constrained behavior of the other women.
Highlights Immalee's purity and difference from Spanish society.