# II explained — Nostromo

> Chapter companion for Nostromo by Joseph Conrad.

## What happens

Captain Mitchell recounts the dramatic escape of the deposed dictator President Ribiera from a revolutionary mob in Sulaco, highlighting Nostromo's heroic role in saving him and other officials. The chapter also describes the O.S.N. Company's operations and the political instability of Costaguana.

## Themes in this chapter

### Politics and Revolution

The chapter centers on the violent overthrow of President Ribiera and the chaos of revolutionary mobs in Sulaco.

### Imperialism and Material Interests

The O.S.N. Company's protection of its property and the silver treasure highlights foreign economic dominance.

### Class and Social Hierarchy

Nostromo's leadership over lightermen and the distinction between European residents and the native mob illustrate class divisions.

## Character check-ins

### Captain Mitchell

Narrates the escape of President Ribiera and praises Nostromo's bravery and leadership.

### Nostromo

Leads the lightermen and Italian workmen to rescue President Ribiera and defend the jetty against the mob.

### President Ribiera

Flees to Sulaco after the lost battle of Socorro and is rescued by Nostromo and Captain Mitchell.

### Giorgio Viola

His hotel near the harbor escapes looting during the riot.

## Key lines

> Sir, the ill-timed end of that mule attracted attention to the unfortunate rider.

The mule's death drew the mob's notice to President Ribiera.

_Captain Mitchell explains how Ribiera was nearly discovered by the revolutionary crowd._

> Without him señor Ribiera would have been a dead man.

Nostromo's intervention saved President Ribiera's life.

_Mitchell emphasizes Nostromo's crucial role in the rescue._

> We never make mistakes.

The O.S.N. Company prides itself on flawless operations.

_Mitchell's motto reflects the Company's confidence and reliability._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nostromo_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nostromo_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/nostromo_se/chapters