The Napoleon of Notting Hill · Chapter
III: The Great Army of South Kensington explained
The chapter details the final confrontation between the forces of Notting Hill, led by Adam Wayne, and the allied armies of South Kensington, Bayswater, and others.
What happens
The chapter details the final confrontation between the forces of Notting Hill, led by Adam Wayne, and the allied armies of South Kensington, Bayswater, and others. After a fierce battle, Wayne's herald delivers an ultimatum: surrender or be flooded by the captured Waterworks Tower. The allied army, under James Barker and General Buck, surrenders, leading to the establishment of the Empire of Notting Hill. Wayne honors the fallen enemy hero Wilfrid Lambert with a golden monument.
Themes in this chapter
Patriotism and Local Loyalty
Wayne's rallying cry 'Notting Hill! Notting Hill!' and his statement 'We have taught our enemies patriotism!' highlight the fierce local loyalty that drives the conflict.
The Absurdity vs. Seriousness of Life
The chapter juxtaposes the deadly serious battle with absurd elements like the King's amusement, Buck's wine-drinking during surrender, and the herald's formal ultimatum.
The Nature of Leadership and Fanaticism
Wayne's fanatical devotion to Notting Hill and his theatrical leadership contrast with Buck's pragmatic and scientific approach to war.
War and Sacrifice
The chapter describes the violence and casualties of battle, including Lambert's death, and Wayne's honorific monument to a fallen enemy.
Characters to notice
- Adam Wayne
Leads the defense of Notting Hill, delivers a stirring speech, kills Lambert in combat, and ultimately forces the surrender of the allied army by threatening to flood the valley.
- James Barker
As Lord High Provost of South Kensington, he leads the allied army and receives Wayne's surrender ultimatum, ultimately agreeing to surrender.
- Mr. Buck
Provost Buck demonstrates strategic acumen by suggesting lanterns for soldiers to avoid darkness-related disasters, and later accepts the necessity of surrender with composure.
- General Wilson
Leads the Bayswater forces, wears a sixteenth-century uniform, and participates in the final battle against Wayne's men.
- Mr. Lambert
Leads the yellow West Kensingtons, engages Wayne in combat, and is killed by Wayne's flagstaff spear. Later honored with a monument.
- Auberon Quin
The King observes the battle and the surrender, showing amusement at Wayne's audacious ultimatum.
- Mr. Turnbull
Mentioned as General Turnbull of Notting Hill, who expelled Wilson's forces from Pump Street.
- Perkins
Briefly mentioned as the one Buck asks to fetch another glass of wine after the surrender.
Key passages
“I cannot understand how Wayne can be so inartistic.”
The speaker finds Wayne's actions lacking in aesthetic sense.
Reflects the theme of romanticism vs. modernity, where Wayne's earnestness is seen as unrefined.
“The banner of the Red Lion seldom stoops.”
Wayne proudly declares that his flag rarely lowers.
Highlights Wayne's theatrical and symbolic leadership style.
“We have won! ... We have taught our enemies patriotism!”
Wayne claims victory by instilling local loyalty in his foes.
Emphasizes the theme of patriotism and local loyalty.
“Vicisti Galilaee!”
Buck acknowledges defeat with a reference to Constantine's conversion.
Shows Buck's classical education and acceptance of inevitable defeat.
