The Deluge · Chapter
Chapter XXXI explained
Kmita, disguised as a horse-dealer, encounters Pan Jendzian of Vansosh, who mistakes him for a subordinate and offers him protection.
What happens
Kmita, disguised as a horse-dealer, encounters Pan Jendzian of Vansosh, who mistakes him for a subordinate and offers him protection. Their conversation reveals Kmita's true identity when Yuzva Butrym recognizes him. A fight ensues, and Kmita kills several confederates before fleeing. He gives Jendzian a ring as a sign for Volodyovski, advising the confederates to stay together against Radzivill. Kmita struggles with guilt over killing men he would rather fight alongside, but resolves to continue to the king.
Themes in this chapter
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita struggles with his past betrayals and the necessity of killing confederates, while trying to prove his loyalty to the king.
- Redemption and Transformation
Kmita seeks redemption by going to the king, despite his violent past and the guilt of killing men he wishes to fight alongside.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Disguised as a horse-dealer, Kmita is recognized by Yuzva Butrym and forced to kill confederates in self-defense. He gives a ring to Jendzian as a sign for Volodyovski and resolves to go to the king.
- Vansosh
Pan Jendzian of Vansosh, a young noble who mistakes Kmita for a subordinate and later receives a ring from him to deliver to Volodyovski.
- Yuzva Butrym
Recognizes Kmita in the inn and attempts to seize him, but is wounded in the ensuing fight.
- Pan Kyemlich
Old Kyemlich, traveling with Kmita, is present during the confrontation and later ponders Kmita's motives.
- Soroka
Kmita's trusty sergeant, who brings news of approaching men and later clatters joyously after the colonel.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Referenced as the recipient of Kmita's warning and ring; Kmita expresses a desire to stand with him.
Key passages
“pestilence crushed them, and I hide that not from you, for it seems to me that you are honest; and though you were not honest, you would not bind me and take me to the Swedes, for I should not yield, having armed men, and a sabre at my side.”
Kmita tells Jendzian that even if Jendzian were dishonest, he wouldn't be able to capture him because Kmita is armed and ready to fight.
Kmita asserts his strength and distrust, setting the tone for their interaction.
“I am Pan Jendzian of Vansosh, said he, with importance.”
The young noble introduces himself proudly as Pan Jendzian of Vansosh.
Jendzian reveals his identity, leading to Kmita's amusement and later conflict.
“Jesus, Mary! screamed Butrym, this is Kmita!”
Yuzva Butrym recognizes Kmita and cries out in shock.
The moment of recognition triggers the violent confrontation.
“I am he! said Pan Andrei, seeing that there were no further means of concealment.”
Kmita admits his identity when he can no longer hide it.
Kmita's confession leads to the fight and his escape.
“My old sins are pursuing and following me, said Kmita to himself. I will flee to the farthest place; and guide me, O God!”
Kmita reflects that his past misdeeds are catching up with him and prays for guidance as he flees.
Kmita's guilt and desire for redemption are central to his character arc.
