The Purple Land · Chapter
XI: The Woman and the Serpent explained
Richard Lamb, detained at an estancia, uses a harmless snake to fend off the unwanted attentions of the Juez's fat wife.
What happens
Richard Lamb, detained at an estancia, uses a harmless snake to fend off the unwanted attentions of the Juez's fat wife. After causing chaos with the snake, he is shunned by the household. The Juez returns, argues with his wife, and the next morning Lamb finds his horse saddled and is free to leave.
Themes in this chapter
Civilization vs. Nature
Lamb's use of a harmless snake to manipulate social interactions contrasts the natural world with the artificial constraints of the household.
Exile and Belonging
Lamb feels trapped and exiled at the estancia, longing to return to his wife in Montevideo.
Characters to notice
- Richard Lamb
Narrator and protagonist; uses a snake to escape the hostess's company, then is freed the next morning.
- Demetria
Mentioned as his 'sweet, angelic child-wife' waiting in Montevideo.
- Marcos Marcó
Compared to the snake in captivity; his escape is discussed.
- Barbudo
Referred to as 'Brass Buttons'; indifferent servant who saddles the horse.
Key passages
“Unable to shake her off, I started for my walk in a somewhat unamiable mood, the stout lady resolutely trudging on at my side, perspiring abundantly.”
Lamb reluctantly begins his walk with the persistent, overweight hostess.
Shows Lamb's irritation and the hostess's determination.
“I captured it in a moment; then, with the poor frightened creature struggling in my hand and winding itself about my wrist, I walked back to her.”
Lamb catches the snake and returns to the hostess, deliberately alarming her.
Demonstrates Lamb's mischievous use of the snake to drive her away.
“The prejudice makes me angry, but on this occasion it had a use, for it enabled me to pass the day unmolested.”
Lamb acknowledges that the household's fear of snakes, though irrational, allows him peace.
Highlights the theme of cultural clash and Lamb's pragmatic attitude.