# XXX: How the Proverb—“The Madder One Is, the More One Laughs”—Is Not Always Quite True explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Guy de Maupassant.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_23_se/chapters/xxx-how-the-proverb-the-madder-one-is-the-more-one-laughs-is-not-always-quite-true
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_23_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_23_se/chapters