The Deluge · Chapter
LXXV explained
Envoys from Charnyetski, including Volodyovski, Kmita, and Zagloba, meet King Karl Gustav to negotiate the release of Roh Kovalski.
What happens
Envoys from Charnyetski, including Volodyovski, Kmita, and Zagloba, meet King Karl Gustav to negotiate the release of Roh Kovalski. The king is amused by Roh's defiance and strength, and after a tense exchange, agrees to free him. The envoys observe the Swedish camp and discuss military tactics.
Themes in this chapter
- Honor and Betrayal
The king accuses Charnyetski of breaking his word, while Kmita counters that the Swedes broke the truce first.
- National Identity and Resistance
The envoys assert loyalty to the Polish king and faith, refusing to be bound by Swedish oaths.
- War and Destruction
Descriptions of the Swedish camp, fortifications, and the ongoing conflict.
Characters to notice
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Envoy from Charnyetski, known as a famous sabre; negotiates with King Karl Gustav.
- Andrei Kmita
Envoy who blew up the Swedish gun at Chenstohova; recounts killing Kuklinovski.
- Zagloba
Envoy and adviser to Charnyetski; witty and bold in dialogue with the king.
- Roh Kovalski
Prisoner who made a vow against the king; demonstrates strength by wrestling twelve men.
- Karl Gustav
Swedish king; amused by Roh's defiance, agrees to release him.
- Stefan Charnyetski
Mentioned as the leader who sent the envoys and broke his word to the king.
- Pan Sadovski
Cheh officer in Swedish service; guides the envoys and relays information about Roh.
- Pan Kuklinovski
Mentioned as having died after Kmita's encounter.
Key passages
“I was bound to my own king, not to your Royal Grace.”
Volodyovski explains his loyalty to the Polish king, not the Swedish one.
Demonstrates the theme of national identity and resistance.
“I made a vow.”
Roh states he vowed to kill the Swedish king.
Highlights Roh's personal honor and determination.
“Put away your vow, and I will give you your life and freedom.”
King Karl Gustav offers to free Roh if he renounces his vow.
Shows the king's clemency and Roh's stubbornness.
