’Midst the Wild Carpathians · Chapter
A Prince in His Own Despite explained
A year after Michael Apafi's return home, his wife Anna is in labor.
What happens
A year after Michael Apafi's return home, his wife Anna is in labor. Turkish soldiers arrive, demanding Apafi accompany them to Ali Pasha's camp. Despite his wife's pleas, Apafi leaves, learning en route that Anna has given birth to a son. At the camp, Ali Pasha informs Apafi that the Sultan has chosen him to become Prince of Transylvania, replacing John Kemeny. Apafi is reluctant but is compelled to issue writs for a Diet.
Themes in this chapter
Fate and Free Will
Apafi is thrust into a position of power against his will, illustrating the lack of agency in his life.
Political Intrigue
The Ottoman Pasha orchestrates the replacement of a prince, showing the political machinations of the time.
Characters to notice
- Michael Apafi
Forced to leave his wife in childbirth to meet Ali Pasha; learns he is to be made Prince of Transylvania.
- Anna Bornemissa
In labor, fears for her husband's safety, gives birth to a son.
- Ali Pasha
Commands Apafi to come to his camp and announces the Sultan's decision to make him Prince.
- Andrew
Servant who brings news of the birth of Apafi's son.
Key passages
“My wife lies in the pangs of childbirth; the issues of life and death depend on the next five minutes. I cannot leave her now.”
Apafi pleads that he cannot leave his wife who is in labor, as her life and the child's are at risk.
Shows Apafi's concern for his family over his own safety.
“The Sublime Sultan has heard how honestly, discreetly, and manfully thou hast borne thy doleful captivity...”
Ali Pasha explains that the Sultan has been impressed by Apafi's conduct during his captivity and has chosen him for a higher purpose.
Reveals the reason for Apafi's elevation.