Poetry · Chapter
Judge Rutledge explained
A satirical portrait of Judge Rutledge, depicted as a 'Sultan of Stupids' who lacks the wisdom to remain indoors after a storm, and whose presence prompts Justice to weep while keeping a watchful eye.
What happens
A satirical portrait of Judge Rutledge, depicted as a 'Sultan of Stupids' who lacks the wisdom to remain indoors after a storm, and whose presence prompts Justice to weep while keeping a watchful eye.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Corruption
Justice is depicted as compromised, lifting her bandage to watch the judge while weeping.
Political Satire
The judge is mocked as a 'Sultan of Stupids', critiquing judicial incompetence.
Characters to notice
- The Judge
Addressed as 'Judge Rutledge' and 'Sultan of Stupids', portrayed as foolish and smug.
Key passages
“Judge Rutledge Sultan of Stupids! with enough of brains To go indoors in all uncommon rains, But not enough to stay there when the storm Is past.”
Judge Rutledge, king of fools, has just enough sense to come in from the rain, but not enough to stay inside once the rain stops.
Highlights the judge's lack of basic wisdom.
“Lifts her broad bandage half-an-inch and keeps One eye upon you while the other weeps.”
Justice raises her blindfold slightly, watching you with one eye while crying with the other.
Suggests justice is both compromised and sorrowful.