Zuleika Dobson · Chapter
XIII explained
The narrator observes Noaks in his room, who has set up a shrine to Zuleika and repeatedly says 'I am so young to die.' The narrator then descends to the Duke's room, finding him in a state of pride and shame after catching cold.
What happens
The narrator observes Noaks in his room, who has set up a shrine to Zuleika and repeatedly says 'I am so young to die.' The narrator then descends to the Duke's room, finding him in a state of pride and shame after catching cold. The Duke struggles with his memory and hatred of Zuleika, ultimately considering abandoning his pledge to die for her, embracing life and laughing into the dawn.
Themes in this chapter
Death and Sacrifice
The Duke contemplates his pledge to die for Zuleika, but begins to question the necessity of his sacrifice.
Vanity and Self-Absorption
The Duke's pride and self-image are central; his concern with honor and ridicule drives his internal conflict.
Fate and Irony
The Duke's sneeze and cold are ironic physical betrayals that undermine his grand resolve, and the gods laugh at his predicament.
Characters to notice
- Noaks
Seen in his room with a shrine to Zuleika, weeping and repeating 'I am so young to die.'
- Duke of Dorset
Struggles with shame and hatred after catching cold, considers breaking his pledge to die, and ultimately embraces life.
- Zuleika Dobson
Her image is worshipped by Noaks; the Duke's hatred of her intensifies as he recalls his love.
Key passages
“I am so young to die.”
Noaks repeatedly laments that he is too young to die.
Noaks' refrain highlights his self-pity and fear of death.
“He stood with his head flung back and his arms folded, gorgeous in a dressing-gown of crimson brocade.”
The Duke stood proudly in a red brocade dressing-gown, striking a majestic pose.
The Duke's appearance contrasts with his inner turmoil.
“He had caught cold.”
The Duke had developed a cold.
The physical ailment symbolizes the body's betrayal of his proud spirit.
“He would laugh last and loudest.”
The Duke resolves to have the final laugh over the gods and Zuleika.
The Duke's shift toward defiance and life.