Canto VI explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Imperialism and Conquest

  The Portuguese expedition is framed as a divinely favored mission to establish a Christian empire in the East.

• Fate and Divine Providence

  The gods' intervention and the eventual success of the voyage suggest a providential destiny for the Portuguese.

• Heroism and Glory

  The tale of the Twelve of England and the storm's endurance highlight the heroic virtues of the Portuguese.

Characters to notice

• Vasco da Gama

  Departs from Melinde, bids farewell to the pagan king, and continues the voyage.

• Bacchus

  Descends to Neptune's palace and incites the sea-gods to destroy the Portuguese fleet.

• Venus

  Calms the storm and directs the fleet to Calecut.

• Fernam Velloso

  Tells the tale of the Twelve of England to entertain the crew.

• Neptune

  Presides over the sea-gods in his palace; Bacchus appeals to him.

• Thetis

  Speaks indignantly during the sea-gods' council.

• Aeolus

  Releases the winds at the sea-gods' request, causing the storm.

Key passages

• “Illustrious Gama from Melindé saileth, (1–5) With native Pilots and fresh nutriment;”

  Gama leaves Melinde with local pilots and new supplies.

  The departure from Melinde marks the continuation of the voyage.

• “Descends Lyaeus seaward; Neptune haileth (6–37) The Gods who rule the humid element:”

  Bacchus goes down to the sea and calls upon Neptune and the sea-gods.

  Bacchus seeks to rally the sea-gods against the Portuguese.

• “Velloso, giving praise and honour, telleth (38–69) Of th' 'English Twelve' the Tale of Tournament:”

  Velloso tells the story of the Twelve of England to the crew.

  The tale is a chivalric interlude during the voyage.

• “Succoureth Venus her long suff'ering Fleet (70–91) And thus the wisht-for strand of Inde they greet. (92–end)”

  Venus helps the fleet and they finally arrive at the shores of India.

  The arrival at Calecut is the culmination of the voyage.