# XXXIII explained — The Deluge

> Chapter companion for The Deluge by Henryk Sienkiewicz.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_deluge_se/chapters/xxxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_deluge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_deluge_se/chapters