# XXVIII: The Preacher explained — The Princess and Curdie

> Chapter companion for The Princess and Curdie by George MacDonald.

## What happens

The chapter describes the aftermath of the king's actions in Gwyntystorm, where the clergy and citizens react with fear and superstition. The first priest delivers a sermon on 'Honesty is the best Policy,' but is interrupted by a monstrous serpent that carries him away, driving him mad. The city descends into chaos, with reports of demonic activity, attacks on citizens, and the butchers' cruelty towards strangers. The chapter ends with the city in turmoil, as the people turn against the clergy and the king.

## Themes in this chapter

### Corruption of Power

The clergy and citizens of Gwyntystorm abuse their authority, leading to injustice and chaos.

### Faith and Trust

The people's faith in their religious leaders is shattered, and trust in the king erodes.

### Good vs. Evil

The demonic events and the cruelty of the butchers contrast with the hidden acts of kindness, like Derba's sheltering of the stranger.

## Character check-ins

### The First Priest

Delivers a sermon on self-interest and is carried off by a serpent, losing his sanity.

### The Servants

Dismissed from the palace, leading to speculation and unrest in the city.

### The Colonel

Mentioned as missing, contributing to the uncertainty of the king's bodyguard.

### Derba

Her cottage provides refuge for a stranger attacked by dogs.

### Gwyntystorm

The city itself is a character, descending into fear and chaos.

## Key lines

> Honesty is the best Policy.

Being honest is the most advantageous course of action.

_The first priest uses this proverb as his sermon text, but his interpretation is self-serving._

> every One should take care of that One.

Each person should look after themselves first.

_The priest's fundamental principle of self-interest, which he claims is the basis of their religion._

> the reaction of excess so directed was upon the director of the same, to the comfort, that is, and well-being of the original self.

Any kindness shown to others ultimately benefits the giver, bringing comfort and well-being back to oneself.

_The priest's justification for altruism as a means of self-gratification._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se/chapters/xxviii-the-preacher
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se/chapters