Short Fiction · Chapter
XXX: How the Proverb—“The Madder One Is, the More One Laughs”—Is Not Always Quite True explained
The chapter describes the escalating conflict between Heraclius and Dagobert over their opposing beliefs about metempsychosis.
What happens
The chapter describes the escalating conflict between Heraclius and Dagobert over their opposing beliefs about metempsychosis. Their rivalry splits the community into two violent factions, forcing the Governor to schedule separate exercise times to prevent bloodshed. Meanwhile, the dog Pythagoras howls outside at night, haunting Heraclius.
Themes in this chapter
Obsession and Delusion
Heraclius and Dagobert's fanatical devotion to their opposing views on metempsychosis drives them to recruit followers and incite violence, illustrating how obsession can lead to delusional conflict.
Cruelty and Suffering
The violent battles between the two factions and the haunting howl of Pythagoras outside the walls underscore the cruelty and suffering caused by their rivalry.
Characters to notice
- Doctor Heraclius Gloss
Engages in a heated confrontation with Dagobert over the manuscript on metempsychosis, leading to a factional split in the community.
- Guy de Maupassant
Narrator of the chapter, observing the conflict between Heraclius and Dagobert.
Key passages
“Here’s the man who wanted to steal my life’s work, who wanted to filch from me the glory of my discovery.”
Dagobert accuses Heraclius of trying to steal his manuscript and the credit for his discovery.
This accusation ignites the public conflict between the two men.
“Here’s the man who pretends that animals are men and men animals.”
Heraclius counters by accusing Dagobert of claiming that animals and humans are interchangeable.
This highlights the core philosophical disagreement between them.
“Thanks to this prudent arrangement, however, the chiefs of the hostile clans lived happily—beloved and listened to by their disciples, obeyed and venerated.”
Because of the Governor's separate scheduling, the faction leaders enjoyed peace and admiration from their followers.
The irony is that their happiness depends on avoiding each other.