# Consort and Concubine explained — ’Midst the Wild Carpathians

> Chapter companion for ’Midst the Wild Carpathians by Mór Jókai.

## What happens

Banfi, having fallen from power and been deserted by his allies, seeks solace with the odalisque Azrael, who attempts to comfort him with songs and affection. However, her true treachery is revealed when she abandons him for his rival Csaky. Banfi, realizing his folly, surrenders himself to authorities, ensuring his wife's freedom and facing his fate with dignity.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Banfi's eventual surrender to save his wife contrasts with Azrael's self-serving love.

### Honor and Betrayal

Azrael's betrayal and Banfi's resolve to face his enemies honorably.

### Pride and Fall

Banfi's pride leads to his downfall, and his realization of his low state.

## Character check-ins

### Denis Banfi

Fallen viceroy, seeks refuge with Azrael, later surrenders to authorities.

### Azrael

Odalisque who betrays Banfi, aligning with Csaky.

### Lady Banfi

Estranged wife, remains distant but is freed by Banfi's surrender.

### Ladislaus Csaky

Rival who captures Banfi, accompanied by Azrael.

## Key lines

> False is the world and all that is therein! Every day the sun forsakes the sky. Every day the sea forsakes her shores. Every year the swallow forsakes her nest. But the maiden who loves never forsakes her beloved.

The world is deceptive; even nature abandons its constants, but a loving maiden remains loyal.

_Azrael sings this to comfort Banfi, ironically foreshadowing her own betrayal._

> My lord, you read not hearts aright. We give our love for our own sakes, but we do not give ourselves for love's sake. You have frittered away your power, and, deserted by all the world, think to find me faithful who loved your power and that only: I am his who has inherited that power.

You misunderstand love; I loved your power, not you, and now I follow the one who has taken it.

_Azrael's letter reveals her true motives, leading Banfi to confront his own folly._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midst_the_wild_carpathians_se/chapters/ix-consort-and-concubine
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midst_the_wild_carpathians_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/midst_the_wild_carpathians_se/chapters