Savrola · Chapter
Surprises explained
As the revolution is about to begin, Savrola prepares for the final struggle while Lucile unexpectedly arrives at his house, leading to a confrontation with President Molara.
What happens
As the revolution is about to begin, Savrola prepares for the final struggle while Lucile unexpectedly arrives at his house, leading to a confrontation with President Molara. A violent encounter ensues, but Savrola disarms the President and lets him leave. The chapter ends with the sounds of alarm bells and musketry signaling the start of the revolt.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and the Struggle for Power
The chapter culminates in the start of the revolution, with Savrola leading the conspiracy against Molara's regime.
Love Versus Ambition
Savrola's internal conflict between his love for Lucile and his revolutionary ambitions is central to the chapter.
Betrayal and Loyalty
Lucile's loyalty is questioned, and Molara feels betrayed by both his wife and his political rival.
Characters to notice
- Savrola
Prepares for the revolution, confronts Molara, and leaves to lead the uprising.
- Lucile
Arrives at Savrola's house to confess she did not betray him; caught in the confrontation between Savrola and Molara.
- President Antonio Molara
Confronts Savrola and Lucile, attempts to shoot Savrola, but is disarmed and leaves.
- Miguel
Intervenes to prevent Molara from killing Savrola, citing tactical concerns.
- Lieutenant Tiro
Responds to the sound of a shot and reports the building of a barricade in the street.
Key passages
“robbed me of my honour; you are plotting to rob me of my power. There is not room for both of us in the world. You may take your mistress with you to hell.”
Molara accuses Savrola of stealing his honor and plotting to take his power, declaring that only one of them can survive.
Molara's final threat before leaving Savrola's house.
“I cannot stop here.”
Lucile says she cannot remain in Savrola's house.
Lucile's distress after the confrontation.
“You had better stay here for the present. The house is at your disposal, and you will be alone. I must go at once to the Mayoralty; already I am late—it is close on twelve—the moment approaches.”
Savrola tells Lucile to stay in his house while he leaves for the Mayoralty because the revolution is about to start.
Savrola's decision to leave Lucile behind as he goes to lead the revolt.
“At length one sound was heard which put an end to all doubts— tap , tap , tap , like the subdued slamming of many wooden boxes—the noise of distant musketry. The revolution had begun.”
The sound of distant gunfire confirms that the revolution has started.
The chapter's final lines signaling the outbreak of the revolt.