Romola · Chapter
XXIII: Afterthoughts explained
Tito Melema reflects on the consequences of his impulsive denial of Baldassarre, realizing that his habitual choice of self-preservation has led him into a dangerous position.
What happens
Tito Melema reflects on the consequences of his impulsive denial of Baldassarre, realizing that his habitual choice of self-preservation has led him into a dangerous position. He considers the possibility of Baldassarre's madness as a defense, but also fears physical vengeance. Despite the option of confession, Tito clings to deceit and defensive armor. Meanwhile, the crowd disperses, and Tito learns from the French soldier that Baldassarre is a prisoner, possibly mad but harmless. Tornabuoni suggests attending Savonarola's sermon, but Tito goes to the Palazzo Vecchio, haunted by the serpent-like threat of Baldassarre's living revenge.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Deception
Tito's impulsive lie about Baldassarre's madness is a direct act of betrayal, and his subsequent reliance on deceit highlights the theme's centrality.
Redemption and Moral Choice
Tito faces a moral crossroads: confession could offer redemption, but he chooses self-preservation through lies, illustrating the theme of moral choice.
Duty vs. Personal Desire
Tito's desire for an easy life conflicts with his duty to Baldassarre, and his choice to prioritize personal comfort leads to his current crisis.
Characters to notice
- Tito Melema
Tito is consumed by fear and regret after his impulsive denial of Baldassarre, contemplating deceit and defensive measures rather than confession.
- Baldassarre Calvo
Baldassarre is present in Florence as a prisoner, appearing wild and possibly mad, but Tito knows his passionate nature will seek revenge.
- Piero di Cosimo
Piero observes Baldassarre with a painter's interest, noting his 'tiger look' and intending to see him again in the Duomo.
- Lorenzo Tornabuoni
Tornabuoni politely excuses Tito's fear, suggests stopping the disturbance, and advises attending Savonarola's sermon for political reasons.
- Bartolommeo Scala
Scala is mentioned as the person Tito is to meet at the Palazzo Vecchio, though he does not appear directly in the chapter.
Key passages
“Tito was experiencing that inexorable law of human souls, that we prepare ourselves for sudden deeds by the reiterated choice of good or evil which gradually determines character.”
Tito realized that our character is shaped by repeated choices, and those choices prepare us for sudden actions.
This reflects on how Tito's past decisions led to his impulsive lie.
“He had no sense that there was strength and safety in truth; the only strength he trusted to lay in his ingenuity and his dissimulation.”
Tito did not believe that telling the truth would protect him; he only trusted his cleverness and ability to deceive.
Highlights Tito's moral failing and reliance on deceit.
“He felt as if a serpent had begun to coil round his limbs.”
Tito felt trapped and threatened, as if a snake was wrapping around him.
Metaphor for the inescapable danger posed by Baldassarre's revenge.