# The Old Scarecrow explained — The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel > Chapter companion for The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy. ## What happens In this chapter, the Scarlet Pimpernel continues his daring rescues in revolutionary France, using disguise and cunning to evade Chauvelin's traps. The chapter highlights themes of heroism and sacrifice as the Pimpernel risks his life to save the innocent, while identity and disguise play a central role in his methods. ## Themes in this chapter ### Heroism and Sacrifice The Scarlet Pimpernel risks his life repeatedly to save the innocent, embodying selfless heroism in the face of danger. ### Identity and Disguise The Pimpernel's use of disguise and his dual identity as Sir Percy Blakeney are central to his ability to evade capture and execute rescues. ## Character check-ins ### The Scarlet Pimpernel The protagonist, executing a rescue while maintaining his secret identity. ### Citizen Chauvelin The antagonist, attempting to capture the Pimpernel and thwart his plans. ### Sir Percy Blakeney The alter ego of the Scarlet Pimpernel, whose aristocratic demeanor conceals his heroic actions. ## Key lines > The old scarecrow stood in the field, a silent sentinel against the coming storm. The scarecrow, weathered and still, seemed to watch over the field as a storm approached. _This metaphor sets the tone for the chapter, suggesting the Pimpernel's hidden vigilance._ > Chauvelin's eyes narrowed, scanning the shadows for any sign of the elusive Englishman. Chauvelin looked sharply into the darkness, searching for any trace of the hard-to-find Englishman. _Highlights Chauvelin's relentless pursuit and the tension of the cat-and-mouse game._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_league_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters/the-old-scarecrow - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_league_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_league_of_the_scarlet_pimpernel_se/chapters