The Deluge · Chapter
XL explained
The Swedish forces under Count Veyhard arrive at Yasna Gora and demand the surrender of the cloister.
What happens
The Swedish forces under Count Veyhard arrive at Yasna Gora and demand the surrender of the cloister. Kmita, alongside Charnyetski, witnesses the Swedish blasphemies and, after the enemy fires the first shot, kills two horsemen with his bow. The prior Kordetski blesses the cannon, and Father Dobrosh fires a successful shot that disperses the Swedes. The Swedes retreat to Kjepitsi. Later, a Swedish trumpeter delivers a letter from Count Veyhard offering protection in exchange for surrender. Kordetski convenes a council where Zamoyski inspires the defenders, and an old beggar woman's hymn is taken as a divine omen. The monks reject the Swedish terms, and the Swedes begin burning buildings around Saint Barbara's church, leading to the first skirmishes.
Themes in this chapter
- Religion and Faith
The defense of Yasna Gora is framed as a holy war against heretics; Kordetski blesses the cannon, and the old beggar woman's hymn is seen as a divine omen.
- National Identity and Resistance
The Polish defenders refuse to surrender to the Swedish invaders, viewing the defense as a patriotic and religious duty.
- War and Destruction
The chapter depicts the brutal reality of war: burning buildings, slaughtered cattle, women dragged by the hair, and the first exchange of gunfire.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Kills two Swedish horsemen with his bow after they fire first; stands with Charnyetski and later participates in the council.
- Stefan Charnyetski
Commands alongside Kmita on the walls; restrains Kmita from shooting before the Swedes fire; later speaks in the council in favor of defense.
- Kordetski
Prior of Yasna Gora; blesses the cannon, leads the council, and decides to defend the cloister after reading Count Veyhard's letter.
- Count Veyhard Vjeshchovich
Commands the Swedish forces; sends a letter demanding surrender and later orders the burning of buildings around Saint Barbara's church.
- Yan Zamoyski
Speaks at the council, inspiring the defenders with his words about divine support; Kmita kisses his hand in gratitude.
- Babinich
Mentioned as having a sharp ear and hearing the approaching Swedish cavalry before the trumpets sound.
Key passages
“Kmita, as a true man of war, became calm in a moment.”
Kmita, being a seasoned soldier, quickly regained his composure.
Highlights Kmita's martial discipline and focus in battle.
“In vain dost thou threaten me, O savage Hussite, In vain dost thou summon devils' horns to thy aid, In vain dost thou burn, sparing no blood, For thou'lt not subdue me;”
Your threats are futile, cruel heretic; your demonic allies and your violence will not overcome me.
The beggar woman's hymn is interpreted as a divine prophecy of the cloister's victory.
“To the walls, beloved brethren!”
Everyone to the defensive walls, dear brothers!
Kordetski's rallying cry after the Swedish capitulation terms are rejected.
