The Deluge · Chapter
The Disguised Journey explained
Kmita, disguised as Babinich, plans a secret journey to find King Yan Kazimir in Silesia, accompanied by old Kyemlich and his men.
What happens
Kmita, disguised as Babinich, plans a secret journey to find King Yan Kazimir in Silesia, accompanied by old Kyemlich and his men. They adopt the guise of petty nobles traveling to fairs to avoid Swedish detection, with Kmita concealing his true identity and intentions.
Themes in this chapter
- National Identity and Resistance
Kmita's journey to the king and his rejection of Swedish rule reflect a commitment to Polish national identity and resistance against the Swedish invasion.
- Redemption and Transformation
Kmita adopts a new identity (Babinich) and a humble disguise, symbolizing his internal transformation and desire to redeem his past reputation as a traitor.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Disguises himself as Babinich and plans a journey to the king, concealing his identity and intentions from others.
- Pan Kyemlich
Old Kyemlich agrees to guide Kmita, devises the plan to travel as petty nobles to fairs, and is warned to keep Kmita's alias secret.
- Soroka
Old Soroka mutters in astonishment at Kmita's transformation into Babinich, reluctant to address him informally.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Mentioned as a potential pursuer; Kmita's soldiers fear pursuit from him after the earlier seizure.
Key passages
“To our gracious king. The old man started back in astonishment. 'O Wise Lady!' cried he. 'To what king.' 'Not to the Swedish, you may be sure.'”
Kmita declares his intention to go to the Polish king, not the Swedish one, shocking Kyemlich.
Highlights Kmita's loyalty to the Polish king and his rejection of Swedish allegiance.
“I do not call myself Kmita, but Babinich, do you understand? No one must know my real name.”
Kmita instructs Kyemlich to refer to him only as Babinich, keeping his true identity secret.
Emphasizes the theme of disguise and transformation.
“If you have passes, it is better, for in need they may be shown; but if your grace is travelling on an errand that should remain secret, it is safer not to show the passes.”
Kyemlich advises Kmita to avoid using Swedish passes to prevent leaving a trace that could aid pursuit.
Illustrates the cautious planning and need for secrecy in their journey.
