Trafalgar · Chapter
II explained
Don Alonso declares his intention to join the fleet, sparking a heated argument with his wife Doña Francisca, who vehemently opposes his plan due to his age and past injuries.
What happens
Don Alonso declares his intention to join the fleet, sparking a heated argument with his wife Doña Francisca, who vehemently opposes his plan due to his age and past injuries. The narrator Gabriel is called in and asked about his courage. Marcial, overhearing the dispute, enters the room to join the conversation.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Duty
Don Alonso insists on joining the fleet out of a sense of duty and to 'pay off some of my arrears to the English,' despite his age and infirmities.
Old Age and Obsolescence
Doña Francisca repeatedly calls Don Alonso 'old, feeble, and half-crippled' and 'a piece of useless lumber,' highlighting the theme of obsolescence.
Family and Loyalty
The domestic conflict between Don Alonso and his wife over his decision reflects tensions between family loyalty and personal duty.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The narrator, Gabriel, is called by Don Alonso and asked if he is a brave man; he agrees to accompany his master to the fleet.
- Don Alonso Gutierrez de Cisniega
Determined to join the fleet despite his age and old wounds; argues with his wife about his duty.
- Doña Francisca
Vehemently opposes her husband's plan to join the fleet, citing his age and past injuries; curses the Emperor and the King.
- Señor Marcial
Overhears the argument from the adjoining room and enters to participate; blamed by Doña Francisca for fueling Don Alonso's enthusiasm.
- Churruca
Mentioned as the friend who sent Don Alonso a letter about the fleet's plans.
- Napoleon
Referenced as the 'rascally First Consul' and depicted in a cheap print on the wall.
Key passages
“You are not to go, I declare you shall not join the fleet. What next will you be wanting to do?—at your age and when you have long retired as superannuated!”
Doña Francisca forbids Don Alonso from joining the fleet, arguing that he is too old and has already retired.
Highlights the conflict between duty and domestic opposition.
“I must go, Paquita. From the letter I have just now received from my worthy friend Churruca, I learn that the united squadrons are either to sail from Cádiz and engage the English or to wait for them in the bay in case they are so bold as to enter.”
Don Alonso explains to his wife that he must go because Churruca's letter indicates the fleet will soon fight the English.
Shows Don Alonso's sense of duty and the urgency of the situation.