# XIV explained — Nightmare Abbey

> Chapter companion for Nightmare Abbey by Thomas Love Peacock.

## What happens

Scythrop, in despair over losing both Marionetta and Celinda, threatens suicide. Mr. Glowry tries to persuade him to choose one, but Scythrop cannot decide. He agrees to wait a week before taking action. Raven informs him that all guests have left Nightmare Abbey, including both women. Scythrop initially demands a pistol and port, but ultimately settles for boiled fowl and Madeira. Mr. Glowry confronts him about his behavior with Celinda in the tower, and Scythrop remains paralyzed by indecision.

## Themes in this chapter

### Self-Deception and Delusion

Scythrop convinces himself he cannot choose, yet clings to the hope of having both lovers, refusing to face reality.

### The Futility of Human Endeavor

Scythrop's plans for love and reform collapse; all guests depart, leaving him alone with his indecision and threats of suicide.

### Romantic Idealism vs. Reality

Scythrop's idealized vision of love clashes with the practical impossibility of choosing between Marionetta and Celinda, leading to paralysis.

## Character check-ins

### Scythrop Glowry

Threatens suicide over his romantic dilemma, cannot choose between Marionetta and Celinda, agrees to a week's delay.

### Mr. Glowry

Tries to reason with Scythrop, offers to plead his cause if he chooses one, departs after securing a week's patience.

### Raven

Reports the departure of all guests, tries to coax Scythrop to dinner, advises him to dine first and be miserable afterwards.

### Marionetta Celestina O'Carroll

Has left Nightmare Abbey with Mr. and Mrs. Hilary, said nothing before departing.

### Stella

Referred to as Miss Toobad and the strange lady, has left with Mr. Toobad, said nothing before departing.

### Mr. Toobad

Departed with Stella, repeatedly exclaimed 'the devil was come among us.'

## Key lines

> I must shoot myself.

Scythrop declares his intention to commit suicide.

_Scythrop's dramatic threat reflects his romantic despair and inability to resolve his dilemma._

> A week, sir, is an age: but, to oblige you, as a last act of filial duty, I will live another week.

Scythrop reluctantly agrees to postpone his suicide for a week out of respect for his father.

_This sets up the countdown to the chapter's climax and Scythrop's continued indecision._

> You may as well dine first, and be miserable afterwards.

Raven pragmatically suggests that Scythrop eat before giving in to despair.

_Raven's practical advice contrasts with Scythrop's melodramatic posturing._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nightmare_abbey_se/chapters/xiv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nightmare_abbey_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nightmare_abbey_se/chapters