Romola · Chapter
XXXVIII: The Black Marks Become Magical explained
Baldassarre, having recovered his memory and sense of purpose, now dedicates himself entirely to vengeance against Tito.
What happens
Baldassarre, having recovered his memory and sense of purpose, now dedicates himself entirely to vengeance against Tito. He carefully tracks Tito's movements, avoiding any contact that might alert him, and waits for the perfect moment to strike. Meanwhile, Tito attends a supper at the Rucellai Gardens, unaware that he is being followed. Baldassarre's obsession with revenge consumes him, and he feels a renewed sense of power and control as he plans his retribution.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Deception
Baldassarre's obsession with vengeance is fueled by Tito's betrayal. He deceives Tito by following him secretly, waiting for the moment to expose his treachery.
Redemption and Moral Choice
Baldassarre's recovery of memory and purpose is not for redemption but for revenge. His choice to pursue vengeance rather than forgiveness highlights the moral conflict.
Characters to notice
- Baldassarre Calvo
His memory has returned, and he is now wholly consumed by his desire for vengeance against Tito. He carefully stalks Tito, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.
- Tito Melema
Attends a supper at the Rucellai Gardens, unaware that Baldassarre is following him. He is confident and at ease, surrounded by influential men.
- Bernardo Rucellai
Hosts the supper at the Rucellai Gardens, a typical Florentine grandee and an influential political figure.
- Lorenzo Tornabuoni
Conveys the invitation to Tito for the supper at the Rucellai Gardens, suggesting the gathering has political purposes.
Key passages
“Baldassarre felt the indestructible independent force of a supreme emotion, which knows no terror, and asks for no motive, which is itself an ever-burning motive, consuming all other desire.”
Baldassarre was driven by an unyielding passion for revenge that overpowered all other thoughts and fears.
This illustrates the consuming nature of his hatred.
“It was not any retributive payment or recognition of himself for his own behoof, on which Baldassarre's whole soul was bent: it was to find the sharpest edge of disgrace and shame by which a selfish smiler could be pierced; it was to send through his marrow the most sudden shock of dread.”
Baldassarre's sole aim was not to gain personal satisfaction but to inflict the deepest humiliation and terror on Tito.
His vengeance is purely about causing Tito suffering.