Poetry · Chapter
CCXLI explained
A brief dialogue between Mercy and Revenge, where Revenge identifies itself as the father of Justice and states its intention to attend Mercy's son, who is hiding in the jungle.
What happens
A brief dialogue between Mercy and Revenge, where Revenge identifies itself as the father of Justice and states its intention to attend Mercy's son, who is hiding in the jungle.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Revenge
Revenge declares itself the father of Justice, intertwining the concepts of vengeance and justice in a familial metaphor.
Deception and Self-Deception
Mercy notes that Revenge wears his son's clothing, suggesting disguise or false identity.
Key passages
“Who art thou? said Mercy. Revenge, the father of Justice.”
Mercy asks who Revenge is, and Revenge answers that it is the progenitor of Justice.
Revenge personified claims paternity over Justice.
“Thou wearest thy son's clothing. One must be clad.”
Mercy observes that Revenge is dressed in the garments of his son, and Revenge responds that one must wear clothes.
Revenge's attire is a disguise, hinting at deception.
“Farewell—I go to attend thy son. Thou wilt find him hiding in yonder jungle.”
Revenge bids farewell, saying it will go to attend Mercy's son, who is hiding in the jungle.
Revenge sets out to find Mercy's son, who is in hiding.