# XXII: Pinocchio Discovers the Robbers explained — The Adventures of Pinocchio

> Chapter companion for The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi.

## What happens

Pinocchio, acting as a watchdog, is approached by four polecats who propose a deal to let them steal chickens in exchange for a plucked chicken for himself. He pretends to agree, but instead traps them in the poultry yard and barks to alert the peasant. The peasant captures the polecats and, impressed by Pinocchio's honesty, frees him from his watchdog duty.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Gullibility

The polecats attempt to deceive Pinocchio into colluding with their theft, but Pinocchio turns the tables by pretending to agree while secretly planning to expose them.

### Redemption and Moral Growth

Pinocchio chooses honesty over easy gain, refusing to make terms with dishonest characters, which leads to his freedom and moral vindication.

## Character check-ins

### Pinocchio

Serves as a watchdog and cleverly foils the polecats' theft, demonstrating honesty and resourcefulness.

### Melampo

The deceased dog who previously allowed the polecats to steal chickens; his actions are contrasted with Pinocchio's integrity.

## Key lines

> For, although I am a puppet, possessing perhaps nearly all the faults in the world, there is one that I certainly will never be guilty of, that of making terms with, and sharing the gains of, dishonest people!

Even though I have many flaws, I will never agree to profit from dishonest schemes.

_Pinocchio asserts his moral stance, rejecting the polecats' bribe and affirming his integrity._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_adventures_of_pinocchio_se/chapters/xxii-pinocchio-discovers-the-robbers
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_adventures_of_pinocchio_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_adventures_of_pinocchio_se/chapters