The Deluge · Chapter
X explained
Volodyovski visits the recovering Kmita, reveals that Olenka refused his own proposal because she loves Kmita, and offers Kmita a military commission from Radzivill to redeem himself through service to the Commonwealth.
What happens
Volodyovski visits the recovering Kmita, reveals that Olenka refused his own proposal because she loves Kmita, and offers Kmita a military commission from Radzivill to redeem himself through service to the Commonwealth. Kmita, overwhelmed with gratitude and hope, resolves to rise from his sickbed and fight for his country. Volodyovski then goes to Vodokty to inform Olenka, but finds she has departed with her belongings.
Themes in this chapter
- Redemption and Transformation
Kmita is offered a path to redeem his past sins through military service, and Volodyovski urges him to mend his reputation by serving the country.
- Love and Sacrifice
Volodyovski sacrifices his personal feelings after Olenka's refusal and helps Kmita, motivated by love for Olenka and duty to the Commonwealth.
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita initially calls Volodyovski a traitor, but Volodyovski demonstrates true honor by offering help despite the personal slight.
Characters to notice
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Visits Kmita, confesses his own failed proposal to Olenka, offers Kmita a commission, and later goes to Vodokty only to find Olenka gone.
- Andrei Kmita
Recovering from his wounds, learns that Olenka loves him, receives a commission from Volodyovski, and vows to serve the Commonwealth.
- Olenka Billevich
Refused Volodyovski's proposal because she loves Kmita; has left Vodokty with wagons and bags, destination unknown.
- Yanush Radzivill
Mentioned as the prince voevoda who wrote the letter authorizing the commission for Kmita.
- Yan Skshetuski
Mentioned by Volodyovski as a fellow swordsman and friend from Zbaraj.
Key passages
“Because she loves you.”
Volodyovski reveals that Olenka refused him because she still loves Kmita.
This revelation is the emotional turning point for Kmita, giving him hope and motivation to reform.
“I will give the commission.”
Volodyovski decides to hand over the military commission to Kmita despite their personal history.
Demonstrates Volodyovski's commitment to the country over personal vengeance.
“If you will render service to the Commonwealth, these nobles will forgive you, for they are very sensitive to the honor of the State.”
Volodyovski advises Kmita that serving the nation will earn him forgiveness from the nobility.
Highlights the theme of redemption through patriotic duty.
