Saragossa · Chapter
XXVII explained
The chapter focuses on a quiet interlude during the siege, where Augustine and Mariquilla share a tender moment, discussing their hopes for the future and the end of the war.
What happens
The chapter focuses on a quiet interlude during the siege, where Augustine and Mariquilla share a tender moment, discussing their hopes for the future and the end of the war. Mariquilla reveals her father's suspicious visit to the French lines, while Augustine comforts her. The chapter also highlights the ongoing mining operations and the threat of French attacks, as the characters prepare for a major battle.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Augustine and Mariquilla's tender moment amidst the war, their hopes for a future together, and their willingness to endure hardship for each other.
War and Dehumanization
The constant threat of violence, the displacement of civilians, and the psychological toll of the siege on individuals like Candiola and the Montoria family.
Survival and Human Endurance
The characters' resilience in the face of bombardment, displacement, and loss, as they seek moments of peace and hope.
Characters to notice
- Augustine Montoria
Shows deep affection for Mariquilla, expresses hope for a peaceful future, and comforts her as she sleeps.
- Mariquilla Candiola
Shares her fears about her father's actions, expresses happiness and hope, and falls asleep in Augustine's arms.
- Candiola
Mentioned as having been maltreated and swearing revenge, and crossing into the French lines to collect a debt.
- Don Araceli
Narrator who observes the scene, investigates the mining noises, and reports to the engineers.
- Renovales
Mentioned as the person to be informed about the mining activity.
Key passages
“We have nowhere to stay,” said Mariquilla. “We were in a portico in the Órgano alley; but we were driven out. Why is it that so many people detest my poor father? What harm has he done them?”
Mariquilla laments that she and her father are constantly being driven from their shelters, and she cannot understand why people hate her father so much.
Highlights the social ostracism faced by Candiola and his daughter.
“Mariquilla of my heart,” said Augustine, “let us hope that the siege will soon be finished by some means or other. I hope that God will let us both die, if living we may not be happy.”
Augustine expresses his wish that the siege will end soon, and that if they cannot be happy in life, they might at least die together.
Shows Augustine's despair and his deep love for Mariquilla.
“This morning I went to the Pilar; when I knelt before the Virgin, it seemed to me that our holy Lady looked at me and smiled.”
Mariquilla describes a spiritual experience where she felt the Virgin Mary smiled at her, giving her a sense of hope and happiness.
Reflects the religious faith and superstition prevalent during the siege.