# IV explained — The Gadfly

> Chapter companion for The Gadfly by Ethel Voynich.

## What happens

Arthur struggles with jealousy over Gemma's attention to Bolla, confesses to Father Cardi, and prepares for Easter while Montanelli is appointed to a bishopric and expresses anxiety about Arthur's safety.

## Themes in this chapter

### Religious Hypocrisy and Faith

Arthur's confession and Father Cardi's guidance highlight the tension between personal faith and revolutionary ideals.

### Betrayal and Deception

Arthur's jealousy and suspicion toward Bolla reflect internal betrayal of comradeship.

### Love and Sacrifice

Arthur's love for Gemma and his dedication to the revolutionary cause create inner conflict.

## Character check-ins

### Arthur Burton

Struggles with jealousy and confesses to Father Cardi; prepares for Easter communion.

### Canon Montanelli

Appointed to the see of Brisighella; expresses anxiety about Arthur and offers to cancel his trip.

### Gemma Warren

Invites Arthur for Easter; mentioned as reading with Bolla, sparking Arthur's jealousy.

### Giovanni Bolla

Rival for Gemma's attention; entrusted with smuggling political books.

### Father Cardi

New Director of the seminary; hears Arthur's confession and discusses university regulations.

## Key lines

> My father, I accuse myself of the sins of jealousy and anger, and of unworthy thoughts against one who has done me no wrong.

Arthur confesses to feeling jealous and angry toward Bolla, even though Bolla has not harmed him.

_Arthur's confession reveals his internal struggle with envy._

> Be sure and come as soon as possible, for I want you to meet Bolla. He has been staying here, and we have read together every day.

Gemma's postscript asks Arthur to come quickly because Bolla is visiting and they have been reading together daily.

_This note triggers Arthur's jealousy and sets the emotional tone for the chapter._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gadfly_se/chapters/part-i-iv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gadfly_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gadfly_se/chapters