Short Fiction · Chapter
Borrhomeo the Astrologer explained
Set during the plague of Milan in 1630, the story follows the astrologer and alchemist Borrhomeo, who is visited by a mysterious young man claiming to possess the elixir of life and the philosopher's stone.
What happens
Set during the plague of Milan in 1630, the story follows the astrologer and alchemist Borrhomeo, who is visited by a mysterious young man claiming to possess the elixir of life and the philosopher's stone. The stranger reveals himself as a demonic figure, and Borrhomeo, tempted by promises of immortality and wealth, agrees to a diabolical pact: he must smear a pestilential virus on the doors of churches and religious houses. He is arrested after being seen in the act, and the mob destroys his instruments.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and the Uncanny
The chapter features a demonic visitation, a fiend in dog's shape, and supernatural transformations, embodying the uncanny horror of diabolical pacts.
Faith and Skepticism
The story contrasts the credulity of the populace with the skepticism of church authorities, while Borrhomeo's pact exploits his baptism for evil purposes.
Corruption and Injustice
Borrhomeo's willingness to spread plague for personal gain highlights moral corruption, though he is ultimately arrested and punished.
Characters to notice
- Signor Borrhomeo
The astrologer and alchemist who makes a pact with a demonic figure to gain the elixir of life and wealth, ultimately defiling church doors with plague.
- Doctor Hesselius
The narrator who recounts the story from a manuscript found in a Dominican monastery.
Key passages
“Borrhomeo! Beware of covetousness which is idolatry. On this sordid pursuit which you call a science, have you wasted your days on earth and your peace hereafter.”
The young man warns Borrhomeo that his greed for alchemical wealth is a form of idolatry that has ruined his life and soul.
This quote introduces the moral critique of Borrhomeo's obsession with alchemy.
“Yes, the tincture that can prolong life to virtual immortality, and the dust that can change that lead into gold; but I care for neither.”
The stranger claims to possess both the elixir of life and the philosopher's stone, but says he has no interest in them.
This reveals the stranger's supernatural knowledge and sets up the temptation for Borrhomeo.
“You take this vial, and with the fluid it contains and the sponge trace the letter S on every door of every church and religious house within the walls of Milan. The dog will go with you.”
The demonic figure commands Borrhomeo to mark church doors with a plague-causing substance, accompanied by a hellish dog.
This describes the central diabolical task Borrhomeo agrees to perform.