The Magician · Chapter
IV explained
The group attends a fair at the Lion de Belfort, where Oliver Haddo joins them uninvited.
What happens
The group attends a fair at the Lion de Belfort, where Oliver Haddo joins them uninvited. After a silhouette-cutting, they visit a snake-charmer's booth. Haddo demonstrates his power by causing a horse to tremble and later handles a poisonous viper, causing a rabbit's death. Arthur and Margaret are disturbed, while Susie and Dr. Porhoët are intrigued by Haddo's occult knowledge.
Themes in this chapter
Occult and Supernatural
Haddo's alleged powers, the snake charming, and Dr. Porhoët's discussion of alchemical literature highlight the chapter's focus on the supernatural.
Science vs. Mysticism
Arthur's skepticism contrasts with Haddo's mystical demonstrations, embodying the tension between rationalism and belief in the occult.
Characters to notice
- Arthur Burdon
Skeptical of Haddo's powers, he resolves to investigate Haddo through Frank Hurrell.
- Margaret Dauncey
Filled with loathing and fear of Haddo, she is horrified by the snake demonstration.
- Susie Boyd
Fascinated by Haddo's eccentricity, she insists on observing him and suspects his influence over the horse.
- Oliver Haddo
Demonstrates occult abilities, including causing a horse to tremble and handling a poisonous viper, to the group's dismay.
- Dr. Porhoët
Provides context on Haddo's knowledge of alchemy and the occult, and translates the snake-charmer's incantations.
Key passages
“I should not care to dogmatize about this man. I know I shall outrage the feelings of my friend Arthur, but I am bound to confess it would not surprise me to learn that he possessed powers by which he was able to do things seemingly miraculous.”
Dr. Porhoët admits that Haddo might have supernatural abilities, despite knowing Arthur will disapprove.
Dr. Porhoët expresses cautious belief in Haddo's powers.
“I’ve never met a man who filled me with such loathing. I don’t know what there is about him that frightens me. Even now I feel his eyes fixed strangely upon me. I hope I shall never see him again.”
Margaret confesses her intense fear and disgust toward Haddo, feeling his unsettling gaze.
Margaret's visceral reaction to Haddo's presence.
“He has a minute knowledge of alchemical literature, and there is no book I have heard of, dealing with the black arts, which he does not seem to know.”
Dr. Porhoët notes Haddo's extensive expertise in alchemy and occult texts.
Haddo's scholarly knowledge of the occult.