The Shaving of Shagpat · Chapter
The Genie Karaz explained
Shibli Bagarag impatiently declares he will shave Shagpat that very night, but Noorna and Feshnavat explain the immense difficulty of the task, detailing three chief obstacles: the illusions of Rabesqurat, the Chief of Identicals, and the n
What happens
Shibli Bagarag impatiently declares he will shave Shagpat that very night, but Noorna and Feshnavat explain the immense difficulty of the task, detailing three chief obstacles: the illusions of Rabesqurat, the Chief of Identicals, and the need for a magical blade. Noorna reveals the existence of the Sword of Events in Aklis, which alone can overcome Shagpat's defenses. She then summons the genie Karaz, whom she holds in bondage, and after a tense confrontation forces him to take the shape of an ass to serve as their mount.
Themes in this chapter
The Heroic Journey and Self-Discovery
Shibli's quest is framed as a series of escalating trials, requiring a magical sword and the overcoming of illusions and identicals.
Deception and Guile
Noorna uses her magical arts and the binding hair to control the genie Karaz, demonstrating cunning and manipulation.
Characters to notice
- Shibli Bagarag
Eager to shave Shagpat immediately, but is counseled by Noorna and Feshnavat on the true difficulty of the task.
- Noorna bin Noorka
Explains the three bonds of the enterprise and the need for the Sword of Events; demonstrates her power by summoning and subduing the genie Karaz.
- Feshnavat
Participates in the consultation about the obstacles to shaving Shagpat and expresses fear of Shagpat's power.
- Genie Karaz
Summoned by Noorna, he is forced into the shape of an ass despite his anger and resistance.
Key passages
“There's first, the Chief of Identicals planted by thee in the head of that presumptuous fellow, O my daughter! By what means shall that be overcome?”
Feshnavat asks how they can deal with the Chief of Identicals that Noorna placed in Shagpat's head.
Highlights the first major obstacle in shaving Shagpat.
“What if I know of a sword that nought on Earth or under resisteth, and before the keen edge of which all Illusions and Identicals are as summer grass to the scythe?”
Noorna reveals the existence of a sword that can cut through all magical defenses.
Introduces the Sword of Events as the key to the enterprise.
“To hear is to obey!”
The genie Karaz submits to Noorna's command.
Demonstrates Noorna's power over the genie through her magic.