The Black Arrow · Chapter
V: Night in the Woods: Alicia Risingham explained
Dick Shelton and his men pursue Sir Daniel Brackley through the snowy woods, but the trail splits, forcing them to head toward Holywood.
What happens
Dick Shelton and his men pursue Sir Daniel Brackley through the snowy woods, but the trail splits, forcing them to head toward Holywood. They make camp, and Dick encounters Alicia Risingham, who teases him about his role in her kinsman's death and playfully proposes marriage, though Dick remains steadfastly loyal to Joanna Sedley.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Chivalry
Dick's sense of honor compels him to consider reparation for Lord Risingham's death, even to the point of becoming a monk or marrying Alicia, yet he remains steadfast to his love for Joanna.
Identity and Disguise
Alicia's bold, teasing behavior and her wearing a man's jerkin blur gender roles and challenge Dick's expectations.
Characters to notice
- Dick Shelton
Leads the pursuit of Sir Daniel, struggles with guilt over Lord Risingham's death, and resists Alicia's advances while remaining faithful to Joanna.
- Alicia Risingham
Playfully confronts Dick about her kinsman's death, proposes marriage in jest, and shows a bold, teasing demeanor.
- Sir Daniel Brackley
Flees through the woods, scattering his men to evade pursuit; his trail is followed by Dick.
- Joanna Sedley
Mentioned as the object of Dick's unwavering love and loyalty, despite Alicia's advances.
- Earl Risingham
Deceased kinsman of Alicia; Dick feels guilty for his death in battle.
Key passages
“In honour do ye belong to me, till ye have paid the evil?”
Do you not owe me reparation in honor for the harm you've caused?
Alicia presses Dick to acknowledge his debt to her after her kinsman's death.
“I will even take you for my husband.”
I will marry you as compensation.
Alicia jokingly proposes marriage to Dick, testing his loyalty.
“I will forswear Joanna and the trade of arms. I will be a friar, and pray for your good kinsman's spirit all my days.”
I will give up Joanna and soldiering to become a monk and pray for your kinsman.
Dick's extreme penitence leads him to consider renouncing his love and career.