Saïd the Fisherman · Chapter
XXV explained
Saïd awakens to the chaos of a religious riot in the city, joining the mob in looting and killing.
What happens
Saïd awakens to the chaos of a religious riot in the city, joining the mob in looting and killing. He encounters the old beggar Mustafa, who urges him to join the bloodshed and reminds him of their secret meeting. Amidst the violence, Saïd participates in the destruction of the Muscovite Consul's house and witnesses the intervention of Abdul Cader, who rescues Christian nuns from the mob. Saïd's thoughts turn to Ferideh, whom he has left with Nûr, and he plans to visit her before meeting Mustafa.
Themes in this chapter
Violence and Chaos
The chapter is dominated by mob violence, looting, and killing, illustrating the breakdown of order.
Religion and Superstition
Religious fervor is used to justify atrocities, with cries of 'Dìn Muhammed' and the holy man's exhortations.
Greed and Moral Decline
The mob's greed is shown in looting and burning houses, while Saïd's personal greed for Ferideh's father's wealth is evident.
Characters to notice
- Saïd the Fisherman
Joins the riot, kills a Nazarene, and plans to visit Ferideh.
- Old Mustafa
Urges Saïd to join the riot and reminds him of their secret meeting.
- Ferideh
Mentioned as awaiting Saïd's return, kept by Nûr.
- Nûr
Safekeeping Ferideh for Saïd.
- Abdul Cader
Intervenes to rescue Christian nuns from the mob, rebuking the crowd.
Key passages
“Arise, O sluggard! Is this a time to sleep and be lazy? Come, let us out! There will be blood!—blood—blood of unbelievers to flush the streets like water!”
Get up, you lazy man! This is no time to sleep. Let's go out—there will be bloodshed of non-believers, enough to flood the streets!
Mustafa incites Saïd to join the violence.
“What is this, O my friends? Will you provoke the wrath of Allah against this city? Will you anger Him so that He turn away His face from us forever?”
What are you doing, my friends? Do you want to bring Allah's anger upon this city and make Him abandon us forever?
Abdul Cader rebukes the mob for their actions.