The Beetle · Chapter
The Picture explained
Atherton observes Paul Lessingham's extreme terror at the sight of a photogravure of a beetle, which triggers a fit of panic.
What happens
Atherton observes Paul Lessingham's extreme terror at the sight of a photogravure of a beetle, which triggers a fit of panic. Lessingham begs Atherton to destroy the image and to keep the incident secret, especially from Marjorie Lindon. Their conversation touches on the possibility of a priest of Isis transforming into a beetle after death, hinting at a mysterious past.
Themes in this chapter
The Supernatural and the Unknown
The beetle image and the discussion of a priest of Isis transforming into a beetle invoke supernatural beliefs and unexplained phenomena.
Fear and Psychological Terror
Lessingham's visceral panic and trembling at the sight of the beetle picture illustrate deep psychological terror.
Trauma and Memory
Lessingham's extreme reaction suggests a traumatic past event connected to the beetle, which he is reluctant to reveal.
Characters to notice
- Sydney Atherton
Narrator and observer; tries to understand Lessingham's terror and questions him about the beetle image.
- Paul Lessingham
Displays extreme fear upon seeing the beetle picture; pleads for secrecy and hints at a traumatic past involving Isis.
- Marjorie Lindon
Referenced as the person from whom Lessingham wants to keep the incident hidden.
- The Beetle
The subject of the photogravure that terrifies Lessingham; linked to the supernatural transformation theme.
Key passages
“It is for me to speak, if for anyone. I shall not fail to do what should be done.—Give me your promise that you will not hint a word to her of what you have so unfortunately seen?”
Lessingham insists that he will be the one to tell Marjorie, if anyone, and makes Atherton promise to keep the incident secret from her.
Lessingham's insistence on secrecy and his claim of responsibility foreshadow his hidden past.
“Take it away! take it away!—Tear it up!—Burn it!”
Lessingham frantically demands that Atherton destroy the beetle picture.
Demonstrates the intense fear the beetle image provokes in Lessingham.
“Is it absolutely certain that there could be no foundation of truth in the belief that a priest of Isis—or anyone—assumed after death the form of a beetle?”
Lessingham asks whether it is possible for a person to transform into a beetle after death, referencing the cult of Isis.
Highlights the supernatural and occult themes central to the chapter.