The Deluge · Chapter
XXXIII explained
The confederate squadrons in Podlyasye, scattered and weakened by inactivity, are roused by Volodyovski's letters about Radzivill's impending attack.
What happens
The confederate squadrons in Podlyasye, scattered and weakened by inactivity, are roused by Volodyovski's letters about Radzivill's impending attack. Colonels assemble at Byalystok, and Zagloba emerges as a key figure, proposing a manifesto to confiscate Radzivill property, raise funds, and send letters to the king and Hovanski. The chapter ends with the arrival of eight-pound cannons, boosting morale.
Themes in this chapter
- National Identity and Resistance
The confederate squadrons rally against foreign invaders and traitors, seeking to restore the king and Commonwealth.
- Political Intrigue
Zagloba devises strategic manifestoes and letters to manipulate allies and enemies, including the elector and Hovanski.
- War and Destruction
The army's inactivity leads to internal decay and plundering, while preparations for battle against Radzivill and Swedes intensify.
Characters to notice
- Zagloba
Dominates the assembly with boasts of past victories, proposes strategic manifestoes, and is hailed as a leader.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
His letters rouse the colonels; he supports Zagloba's plans and leads the Lauda squadron.
- Roh Kovalski
Appears as Zagloba's nephew, backing his uncle's claims with a stentorian voice.
- Yan Skshetuski
Present among the colonels, silent during Zagloba's speech.
- Stanislav Skshetuski
Present and asks about the elector's allegiance.
- Vansosh
Jendzian, the tenant of Vansosh, volunteers to carry Zagloba's letter to the elector.
Key passages
“I do not like to praise myself, nor to speak of what has not been; for with me truth is the basis, as my sister's son also can testify.”
Zagloba claims he never lies, and his nephew Roh Kovalski backs him up.
Zagloba's self-aggrandizement is a recurring comic element.
“There are such times at present that whoever has a sword is right.”
Zagloba argues that might makes right in the current chaos.
Reflects the lawlessness of the period.
“Let our father have at least this comfort in a strange land; our beloved lord, our Yagellon blood, which must wander in exile—think of it, think of it!”
Zagloba proposes sending a letter to King Yan Kazimir to console him in exile.
Shows loyalty to the exiled king.
