Romola · Chapter
The Evening and the Morning explained
Romola, driven by a growing purpose, hurries to the Old Palace to warn her godfather Bernardo del Nero of the dangers she has learned about.
What happens
Romola, driven by a growing purpose, hurries to the Old Palace to warn her godfather Bernardo del Nero of the dangers she has learned about. She tells him he is in danger from fanatical men and traitors, but he dismisses her fears, saying he will not forsake his colors. After leaving, Romola sleeps deeply and wakes to the sound of guns as Piero de' Medici attempts to enter Florence with troops. The attack is repelled, and Piero flees, but the aftermath leaves Romola anxious about the fate of Baldassarre and the political turmoil.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Deception
Romola warns of traitors and the danger of trusting others, reflecting the pervasive atmosphere of political betrayal.
Duty vs. Personal Desire
Bernardo del Nero's refusal to abandon his political stance despite personal risk highlights the conflict between duty and self-preservation.
Characters to notice
- Romola de' Bardi
Warned Bernardo del Nero of danger, driven by a growing purpose and anxiety.
- Bernardo del Nero
Received Romola's warning but dismissed it, determined to stay loyal to his colors.
- Maso
Brought news of Piero de' Medici's attack and the city's response.
- Piero de' Medici
Attempted to enter Florence with troops but was repelled and fled.
- Baldassarre Calvo
Romola's anxiety about losing sight of him persists.
Key passages
“Heedless of the darkening streets, and not caring to call for Maso’s slow escort, she hurried across the bridge where the river showed itself black before the distant dying red, and took the most direct way to the Old Palace.”
Romola rushed through the dark streets without waiting for Maso, crossing the bridge where the river looked black against the fading red sky, heading straight to the Old Palace.
Shows Romola's urgency and determination.
“As for warnings, they are of no use to me, child. I enter into no plots, but I never forsake my colours.”
Bernardo says that warnings are useless to him because he doesn't engage in plots but will never abandon his loyalties.
Highlights Bernardo's steadfastness and sense of duty.