The Deluge · Chapter
XXI explained
Zagloba reveals Radzivill's betrayal to Kmita, who is shocked and leaves.
What happens
Zagloba reveals Radzivill's betrayal to Kmita, who is shocked and leaves. The group debates Kmita's fate, with Volodyovski condemning him as a traitor and ordering his execution. Olenka remains silent and later collapses. Billevich is urged to flee to Podlyasye. Meanwhile, Kmita attempts to persuade Billevich to go to Kyedani under Radzivill's protection, but Olenka refuses, preferring death to infamy.
Themes in this chapter
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita's faith in Radzivill is shattered by the letter revealing betrayal. Volodyovski condemns Kmita as a traitor, while Olenka chooses death over dishonor.
- Political Intrigue
Radzivill's manipulation through Kmita to force Billevich to Kyedani, and the group's strategic flight to Podlyasye, highlight the political machinations of the war.
- Love and Sacrifice
Olenka's silent suffering and collapse after Kmita's sentencing, and her refusal to compromise her principles, reflect personal sacrifice amid conflict.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Confronted by Zagloba with Radzivill's betrayal; crushed the letter and left. Later sentenced to death by Volodyovski for treason, but walks calmly to execution. Also attempts to persuade Billevich to go to Kyedani.
- Zagloba
Reveals Radzivill's letter to Kmita, undermining his faith. Expresses satisfaction at saving Kmita from death. Later rides off to search for hetman's orders on Kmita.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Condemns Kmita as a traitor and orders his execution. Shows some regret but insists on justice. Advises Billevich to flee to Podlyasye.
- Olenka Billevich
Remains silent and motionless during Kmita's sentencing, then collapses in another room. Later refuses to go to Kyedani voluntarily, preferring death to infamy.
- Tomash Billevich
Hesitates to flee due to property concerns, but is persuaded by Volodyovski. Also resists Kmita's invitation to Kyedani but weakens until Olenka intervenes.
- Yan Skshetuski
Defends Kmita as not a bad man, only erring. Bids farewell to Olenka, asking her to embrace his wife and children.
Key passages
“He is not a bad man, only an erring one.”
Pan Yan Skshetuski defends Kmita, saying he is misguided rather than evil.
Skshetuski's assessment of Kmita's character after the confrontation.
“Bind us, sir officer, or sir executioner, and take us with horses, for in another way we will not go.”
Olenka refuses to go to Kyedani voluntarily, demanding to be taken by force rather than submit to traitors.
Olenka's defiant response to Kmita's invitation, preferring death to infamy.
“I do not ask that lady for intercession.”
Kmita refuses to seek Olenka's help when facing execution.
Kmita's proud rejection of Olenka's potential plea for mercy.
