The Deluge · Chapter
XXIV explained
Prince Radzivill, gravely ill, reveals his political duplicity to Kmita, explaining that his alliance with Sweden is conditional and that he may turn against the Swedes if fortune shifts.
What happens
Prince Radzivill, gravely ill, reveals his political duplicity to Kmita, explaining that his alliance with Sweden is conditional and that he may turn against the Swedes if fortune shifts. He sends Kmita on a mission to Prince Boguslav and then to King Karl Gustav, instructing him to spread false rumors, observe key magnates, and propose a marriage alliance to win over Lyubomirski. Kmita, torn between love for Olenka and his duty, agrees to leave immediately, and Radzivill promises to protect Olenka.
Themes in this chapter
- Political Intrigue
Radzivill's secret instructions to Kmita reveal a web of conditional alliances, espionage, and manipulation aimed at securing power for the Radzivill family.
- Honor and Betrayal
Radzivill's plan to feign loyalty to Sweden while preparing to betray them highlights the theme of honor versus self-interest.
- National Identity and Resistance
The possibility of a Polish uprising against the Swedes is discussed, reflecting the struggle for national sovereignty.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Receives secret instructions from Radzivill; struggles with lingering love for Olenka; agrees to depart on a political mission.
- Yanush Radzivill
Reveals his conditional alliance with Sweden and his ambition for the crown; sends Kmita to Prince Boguslav and Karl Gustav.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Mentioned as loitering in Podlyasye; Kmita is to deliver letters and coordinate with him.
- Stefan Charnyetski
Mentioned as defending Krakow against the Swedes; praised as a good soldier.
- Olenka Billevich
Kmita asks Radzivill to protect her; Radzivill promises to send her to Tanrogi.
- Karl Gustav
Kmita is to deliver letters to him as part of Radzivill's diplomatic strategy.
- Pan Lyubomirski
Target of Radzivill's proposed marriage alliance to secure support.
Key passages
“I am astonished that Boguslav is loitering still in Podlyasye. As God is true, he may ruin both me and himself.”
Radzivill expresses frustration that Prince Boguslav is delaying in Podlyasye, warning that his hesitation could endanger both of them.
Highlights Radzivill's concern about timing and the risks of indecision.
“If it comes to retreating and turning against the Swedes, he is to be the link between me and Yan Kazimir.”
Radzivill explains that Prince Boguslav is meant to serve as a bridge for a potential shift in allegiance back to King Yan Kazimir.
Reveals the conditional nature of Radzivill's alliance with Sweden.
“I would rather death found me on the throne than in the antechamber of a king.”
Radzivill declares his ambition to die as a ruler rather than as a mere courtier.
Illustrates Radzivill's pride and his desire for supreme power.
