The Deluge · Chapter
XXIX explained
Kmita, wounded and in despair, wrestles with his conscience over his past sins and service to traitors.
What happens
Kmita, wounded and in despair, wrestles with his conscience over his past sins and service to traitors. He prays fervently for guidance and mercy, then resolves to seek the king. He encounters the Kyemliches, a family of former soldiers turned robbers, and interrogates them about their activities. Learning that Pan Volodyovski's squadron is quartered in Shchuchyn, he decides to go there.
Themes in this chapter
- Redemption and Transformation
Kmita's internal struggle and prayer mark a turning point as he seeks to atone for his past sins and serve his country honorably.
- Religion and Faith
Kmita's desperate prayer to Christ and the Virgin Mary underscores the role of faith in his quest for moral direction.
- War and Destruction
The chaos of war is evident in the lawless activities of the Kyemliches and the general breakdown of order.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Wounded and tormented by conscience, prays for redemption and decides to go to the king.
- Soroka
Kmita's trusty sergeant; reports that letters have not been found.
- Pan Kyemlich
Old Kyemlich, a former soldier turned robber, tends to Kmita's wound and is questioned about the horses.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Mentioned as leading a squadron quartered in Shchuchyn.
Key passages
“O Jesus Christ, dear Lord, as on the cross thou hadst pity for the thief, so now have pity for me. Behold I desire to cleanse myself from sins, to begin a new life, and to serve my country honestly; but I know not how, for I am foolish.”
Kmita prays to Christ, asking for mercy and guidance to reform his life and serve his country, admitting his own foolishness.
Kmita's plea for redemption and moral clarity.
“Thou art trying to escape, thou fool, from toil and atonement.”
His conscience accuses him of trying to avoid the hard work of making amends.
Kmita's internal conflict about his past actions.
“We take horses! ... From whomsoever comes along. ... From Zolotarenko’s men. ... Father sells them in Prussia.”
The Kyemliches admit they steal horses from anyone and sell them in Prussia.
Reveals the lawless nature of the Kyemliches' activities.
