XXIX: A Moment of Triumph explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Political and Religious Corruption

  The chapter depicts the political maneuvering and public manipulation in Florence, with Tito using his oratory to gain popular favor while the crowd's enthusiasm is based on a simplified narrative. The discussion of Savonarola's visions also highlights the intersection of religion and politics.

• Betrayal and Deception

  Tito's internal amusement at the crowd's belief that Capponi represented them, while he himself is a Medici friend, underscores his deceptive nature. His 'moment of triumph' is built on a performance, and the sudden appearance of the man who recognizes him hints at the exposure of his past betrayals.

• Knowledge and Erudition

  The conversation in Nello's shop revolves around scholars, prophecies, and classical references, highlighting the value placed on learning and wit in Florentine society. Tito is referred to as 'bel erudito' and his ability to speak persuasively is linked to his scholarly background.

Characters to notice

• Tito Melema

  Carried triumphantly through the piazza, he announces Piero Capponi's success in securing an honorable treaty. He relishes his role as a popular orator, but his moment of triumph is cut short when he spots a man in the crowd who seems to know him.

• Nello

  Hosts the gathering in his shop, defends Tito against Piero's criticism, and jokes about Savonarola's visions. He is excited by the news from the Via Larga and waves his cap as the crowd approaches.

• Piero di Cosimo

  Criticizes Tito's fearful reaction to a stranger, questioning his courage. He engages in a debate with Nello about bravery and sensibility, and remains skeptical of Tito's character.

• Francesco Cei

  Mocks Savonarola's prophecies, comparing them to Camilla Rucellai's more accurate prediction about Pico's death. He is part of the group in Nello's shop awaiting news.

• Pietro Cennini

  Defends Savonarola, crediting him with preaching peace and quietness during the crisis. He expresses trust in the Frate to influence the French king.

• Cronaca

  Defends Savonarola's visions as concrete and imminent, not slippery or vague. He is part of the company in Nello's shop.

• Baldassarre Calvo

  Mentioned by Piero as the 'old fellow' who vanished after the French arrived. He is later seen in the crowd, a clean-shaven man whose gaze meets Tito's, suggesting a moment of recognition.

Key passages

• “The old fellow has vanished; went on towards Arezzo the next morning; not liking the smell of the French, I suppose, after being their prisoner.”

  The old man disappeared, heading towards Arezzo the next day, likely because he didn't like the French after being their prisoner.

  Piero di Cosimo reports on Baldassarre's departure, showing his interest in the mysterious old man.

• “I like to see your ready-smiling Messeri caught in a sudden wind and obliged to show their lining in spite of themselves.”

  I enjoy seeing those ever-smiling gentlemen caught off guard and forced to reveal their true selves.

  Piero expresses his cynical pleasure in seeing Tito's fear, suggesting a hidden weakness.

• “If you sound your trumpets, we will ring our bells!”

  If you declare war, we will sound our alarm bells and fight back.

  Tito reports Piero Capponi's defiant words to the French king, which became a rallying cry for Florentine pride.

• “He enjoyed the humour of the incident, which had suddenly transformed him, an alien, and a friend of the Medici, into an orator who tickled the ears of the people blatant for some unknown good which they called liberty.”

  He found it amusing that this event had turned him, a foreigner and Medici supporter, into a speaker who pleased the crowd with talk of liberty.

  This reveals Tito's cynical detachment and his manipulative skill in playing to the crowd's desires.