The Lost Continent · Chapter
The Welcome of Phorenice explained
Deucalion arrives in Atlantis and is welcomed by Empress Phorenice, who elevates him above all other men.
What happens
Deucalion arrives in Atlantis and is welcomed by Empress Phorenice, who elevates him above all other men. During a procession through the city, Phorenice reveals that Atlantis is under siege by rebels and shows Deucalion a wound she received in battle, demonstrating her seriousness. Deucalion observes the stark contrast between the city's magnificence and the poverty of its people.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Tyranny
Phorenice's absolute rule and her decree elevating Deucalion above all others demonstrate the arbitrary nature of imperial power.
Rebellion and Revolution
The ongoing siege of Atlantis by rebels highlights active resistance against Phorenice's regime.
Decay and Destruction
The contrast between the city's splendor and the poverty of its people, along with the siege, suggests societal decay.
Characters to notice
- Deucalion
Arrives in Atlantis and is honored by Phorenice; observes the city's poverty and learns of the rebellion.
- Phorenice
Welcomes Deucalion with high honors, reveals her wound from rebel attack, and discusses the siege of Atlantis.
- Ylga
Attends Phorenice as a fan-bearer and assists with her dress.
- Tatho
Mentioned as having informed Deucalion about Phorenice's divine pretensions.
Key passages
“You looked at my steed before you looked at me. A woman finds it hard to forgive a slight like that.”
Phorenice chides Deucalion for admiring her mammoth before acknowledging her.
Highlights Phorenice's vanity and desire for attention.
“I have been pining this long enough for a stronger meat than they can give, and at last I have sent for you.”
Phorenice expresses her need for a capable minister like Deucalion.
Shows her dissatisfaction with her current courtiers.
“The season has been unhealthy of recent months. These lower people will not build fine houses to adorn my city, and because they choose to live on in their squalid, unsightly kennels, there have been calentures and other sicknesses amongst them, which make them disinclined for work.”
Phorenice blames the poor for their own suffering due to their living conditions.
Reveals her indifference to the plight of the lower classes.