The Adventurous Simplicissimus · Chapter
On What Condition the Huntsman Was Set Free explained
The Huntsman is held captive by the Swedish commandant, who pressures him to switch sides.
What happens
The Huntsman is held captive by the Swedish commandant, who pressures him to switch sides. After refusing to break his oath to the emperor, the Huntsman negotiates a conditional release: he will not bear arms against the Swedes or Hessians for six months, and in return, the commandant grants him freedom and protection. The Huntsman eventually becomes so well-treated that he no longer wishes to return to Soest.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance
The commandant uses threats and false friendliness to pressure the Huntsman into switching sides.
Folly and Wisdom
The Huntsman shows wisdom by refusing perjury and negotiating a conditional release rather than yielding to threats.
Characters to notice
- The Huntsman of Soest
Captured and pressured to serve the Swedes; negotiates a conditional release.
- Daniel St. André
The Swedish commandant who detains the Huntsman and offers him a choice: join the Swedes or face imprisonment.
Key passages
“I will sooner die than be perjured. Yet if the worshipful colonel will set me free and be pleased not to call upon me to do any warlike service, then will I promise him with heart, mouth, and hand to bear and use no arms against the Swedes and Hessians for the space of six months.”
The Huntsman declares he would rather die than break his oath, but offers to swear not to fight against the Swedes or Hessians for six months if the colonel releases him without requiring military service.
The Huntsman's clever compromise preserves his honor while securing his freedom.