# Conclusion explained — The Shaving of Shagpat

> Chapter companion for The Shaving of Shagpat by George Meredith.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shaving_of_shagpat_se/chapters/conclusion
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shaving_of_shagpat_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_shaving_of_shagpat_se/chapters