The Cream of the Jest · Chapter
V: How the Double-Dealer Was of Two Minds explained
In the deep silence of night, Horvendile enters Ettarre's chamber and lights all the lamps, revealing her in white with the broken sigil of Scoteia.
What happens
In the deep silence of night, Horvendile enters Ettarre's chamber and lights all the lamps, revealing her in white with the broken sigil of Scoteia. He confesses that he has betrayed the castle by admitting Maugis d'Aigremont and his men, setting up a contest between Guiron and Maugis for mastery of Storisende and Ettarre. Ettarre bravely declares that heaven will defend the right, but Horvendile, acting as a puppet-shifter, claims the outcome rests with him. The arras parts to reveal Maugis, and Horvendile chuckles.
Themes in this chapter
Art and Illusion
Horvendile's role as puppet-shifter and the lifting of the arras symbolize the manipulation of reality and the illusion of choice.
Dream vs. Reality
The chapter blurs the line between waking and dreaming, with Horvendile's actions and the theatrical reveal of Maugis challenging the characters' sense of control.
Characters to notice
- Horvendile
Betrays Storisende by admitting Maugis, acts as a puppet-shifter, and claims the power to decide the outcome.
- La Beale Ettarre
Awakens to find Horvendile has betrayed the castle; she bravely asserts that heaven will defend the right.
- Maugis d'Aigremont
Enters through the arras after being admitted by Horvendile, representing one of the contenders for mastery.
Key passages
“It is the custom of omnipotence to do that, Ettarre. I have given Maugis d'Aigremont an equal chance with Sir Guiron. It is the custom of omnipotence to do that also, Ettarre.”
Horvendile claims that as an all-powerful being, he must treat all of Ettarre's suitors equally, even if it means betraying her.
Horvendile justifies his betrayal by invoking the impartiality of omnipotence.
“Heaven will defend the right! Ettarre said bravely.”
Ettarre expresses her faith that divine justice will prevail despite the treachery around her.
Ettarre's declaration of faith contrasts with Horvendile's cynical manipulation.