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Scene IV explained

Agape, Chionia, and Irena observe Dulcitius making a fool of himself by embracing kitchen pots and pans, believing he is kissing them.

What happens

Agape, Chionia, and Irena observe Dulcitius making a fool of himself by embracing kitchen pots and pans, believing he is kissing them. His face and clothes become blackened with soot, and the women mock his absurdity, interpreting his blackened appearance as a reflection of his dark soul.

Themes in this chapter

  • Divine Intervention and Miracles

    Dulcitius's delusion and blackening are presented as a form of divine punishment or mockery, protecting the virgins.

  • Martyrdom and Suffering

    The women's steadfastness in the face of Dulcitius's advances highlights their readiness for martyrdom.

Characters to notice

  • Agape

    Observes Dulcitius's folly and comments on his blackened soul.

  • Chionia

    Expresses hope for divine protection and finds Dulcitius's actions absurd.

  • Irena

    Witnesses and describes Dulcitius's deluded behavior to the others.

  • Dulcitius

    Mistakes kitchen utensils for the women and becomes covered in soot.

Key passages

  • “What noise is that outside the door?”

    Agape asks about the commotion they hear.

    Sets the scene for Dulcitius's entrance.

  • “His face, his hands, his clothes! They are all as black as soot. He looks like an Ethiope.”

    Irena describes how Dulcitius is completely covered in black soot.

    Highlights the physical comedy and symbolic blackening.

  • “His body should turn black—to match his soul, which is possessed of a devil.”

    Agape says his outward blackness reflects his inner evil.

    Connects physical appearance to moral state.

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