The Mark of Zorro · Chapter
XXIII: More Punishment explained
Señor Zorro punishes the corrupt magistrado by having him whipped at the post, then forces the landlord and peons to administer the lashes.
What happens
Señor Zorro punishes the corrupt magistrado by having him whipped at the post, then forces the landlord and peons to administer the lashes. When the landlord tries to betray him to caballeros inside the tavern, Zorro fights them off and whips the landlord as well before escaping.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Injustice
Zorro enacts vigilante justice against the corrupt magistrado, punishing him for oppressing the poor and giving unjust verdicts.
Cowardice vs. Courage
Zorro displays courage in facing multiple armed opponents, while the landlord and caballeros act out of fear and self-interest.
Characters to notice
- Señor Zorro
Punishes the magistrado and landlord for their injustices, fights off caballeros, and escapes.
- Sergeant Pedro Gonzales
Not present in this chapter.
- Captain Ramón
Not present in this chapter.
- Señorita Lolita Pulido
Not present in this chapter.
- Fray Felipe
Referenced as the innocent man who was unjustly whipped earlier.
- The Pulidos
Not present in this chapter.
Key passages
“Carry him to his house. And tell the people of the pueblo that this is the manner in which Señor Zorro punishes those who oppress the poor and helpless, who give unjust verdicts and who steal in the name of the law.”
Zorro orders the wounded magistrado taken home and instructs the townspeople to spread the word that this is how he deals with corrupt officials who abuse their power.
Zorro's declaration of his mission to punish injustice.
“There are not enough of you to make a fight interesting, señores.”
Zorro taunts his attackers, saying they are too few to provide a worthy challenge.
Zorro's bravado and confidence in his fighting skills.