The Shaving of Shagpat · Chapter
Conclusion explained
The conclusion describes the aftermath of Shibli Bagarag's successful shaving of Shagpat, including the feasting and celebration, the restoration of towns, the reunion with Noorna, the marriage contract, and the distribution of rewards.
What happens
The conclusion describes the aftermath of Shibli Bagarag's successful shaving of Shagpat, including the feasting and celebration, the restoration of towns, the reunion with Noorna, the marriage contract, and the distribution of rewards. It reflects on the cyclical nature of illusion and the necessity of combatting folly, and notes the fates of various characters such as Baba Mustapha becoming King of Oolb, Kadza departing with Shagpat, and the diminished power of Rabesqurat.
Themes in this chapter
Illusion vs. Reality
The chapter reflects on how illusion beguiled men and how Shibli's success revealed the truth, with the poet noting that fresh illusions will arise.
The Heroic Journey and Self-Discovery
Shibli's journey culminates in mastering the Event, gaining wisdom, and achieving personal and societal transformation.
Love and Sacrifice
Shibli's love for Noorna and his grief during her absence, and their eventual reunion, highlight the theme of love and sacrifice.
Transformation and Renewal
The restoration of towns, the renewal of Noorna's health, and the establishment of a new order signify transformation and renewal.
Characters to notice
- Shibli Bagarag
Master of the Event, restored towns, reunited with Noorna, and became ruler.
- Noorna bin Noorka
Healed by Gulrevaz in Aklis, returned to Shibli, and married him.
- Shagpat
Shaved by Shibli, departed with Kadza to the realms of Rabesqurat.
- Baba Mustapha
Pronounced Sovereign of Oolb as a reward.
- Abarak
Remained at Shibli's right hand as his slave in great adventure.
- Feshnavat
Became the Master's Vizier.
- Kadza
Clung to Shagpat and departed with him.
- Goorelka of Oolb
Tended Noorna in Aklis and brought her back to Shibli.
Key passages
“The blush with which their folly they confess Is the first prize of his supreme success.”
The shame people feel upon realizing their mistake is the first reward of the hero's triumph.
Reflects the theme of illusion vs. reality.
“Power, on Illusion based, o'ertoppeth all; The more disastrous is its certain fall!”
Power built on illusion may rise high, but its inevitable collapse is all the more catastrophic.
Commentary on the nature of power and authority.
“So, ever fresh Illusions will arise And lord creation, until men are wise.”
New illusions will always emerge to dominate humanity until people gain true wisdom.
Cyclical view of history and folly.
“Think ye, had he never known Noorna a belabouring crone, Shibli Bagarag would have shaved Shagpat?”
Do you think Shibli would have succeeded without having experienced Noorna's harsh discipline?
Emphasizes the value of hardship in achieving greatness.
