The Deluge · Chapter
Chapter L explained
King Yan Kazimir and his retinue journey through the Carpathians toward Jivyets.
What happens
King Yan Kazimir and his retinue journey through the Carpathians toward Jivyets. Kmita, under suspicion from Tyzenhauz and others due to his past association with Radzivill, struggles with his desire to confess to the king but resolves to prove his loyalty through deeds. He captures a Swedish horseman, clearing the way and earning Tyzenhauz's apology. The king crosses into Poland, prays on the snowy ground, and the chapter ends with a fire sighted ahead, possibly Jivyets burning.
Themes in this chapter
- Redemption and Transformation
Kmita seeks to prove his loyalty through deeds, hoping to overcome his past as Radzivill's ally and earn the king's trust.
- Political Intrigue
Tyzenhauz's suspicions and the whispers among the retinue highlight the distrust and political maneuvering surrounding Kmita's identity and past.
- National Identity and Resistance
The king's emotional prayer upon crossing into Poland and the mention of peasants attacking Swedes emphasize Polish national identity and resistance against invaders.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Struggles with suspicion from Tyzenhauz and others; captures a Swedish horseman to prove his loyalty; refuses Tyzenhauz's hand initially but reconciles.
- Yan Kazimir
King of Poland; trusts Kmita despite suspicions; prays on the snow upon crossing into Poland; leads the retinue toward Jivyets.
- Tyzenhauz
Suspicious of Kmita, warns the king; later apologizes and reconciles with Kmita after the Swedish horseman is captured.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Mentioned in the context of his letter, which fuels suspicion against Kmita.
- Yanush Radzivill
Mentioned as the prince Kmita formerly aided, contributing to Kmita's reputation.
Key passages
“I believe you today. Remain near our person as before, for treason does not speak in such fashion.”
The king tells Kmita he trusts him and allows him to stay close, implying that a traitor would not speak so sincerely.
King Yan Kazimir expresses trust in Kmita after his emotional plea.
“Forgive me; out of love for the king I brought you under suspicion.”
Tyzenhauz apologizes to Kmita for suspecting him, explaining it was out of concern for the king's safety.
Tyzenhauz reconciles with Kmita after the Swedish horseman is captured.
