Do you think Fiammetta was truly in love with The Pup? If not, how would you define their relationship? Was Bucino's anger at this relationship justified?
I found this picture on a website talking about the psychology behind the witch trials and the idea that devout or uppity women were behind the communicative behaviors that caused the hunting of women who were independent and accused of witchcraft. For some reason, it made me think of La Draga even though I didn't finish the book to get to know her character more.
Did you find La Draga to be a likeable character? How did your view of her change throughout the novel?
We tend to think of a Fiammetta's profession as one that is very hard on women, and doesn't make for a happy life. On the whole, do you consider Fiammetta to be a contented character, or an unhappy one?
What did you think of Fiametta's relationship with her mother, and her mother's influence on her daughter's life?
In the Company of the Courtesan is told from Bucinos' perspective. Why do you think the author wrote it this way, rather than in the first person, from Fiamatta's point of view? What are the benefits of hearing the story and seeing Venice through Bucino's eyes? What are the limitations?
I'm off to Cindy's so I thought I'd post two questions until I'm back. I'll post the next question on Tuesday. :-)
1. In what ways do you think In the Company of the Courtesan seems historically accurate? What details about Renaissance Italy do you think came from the author's imagination, and what aspects of it seemed to be based on her historical research of the period?
In the Company of the Courtesan by Sarah Dunant -- Lil, 18:27:23 04/30/12 Mon [10]
Hi everyone! As you all know, our next discussion starts on Sunday, May 6th. We will be returning to the discussion format that involves posting a question or two every few days. These questions will be from an outside source and assumes you have READ the text in full. We will be openly discussing SPOILER type topics, so please remember that when visiting during the next few weeks. :-)
Not for everyone, but rather funny (warning for language) -- PeggyB, 07:30:27 04/30/12 Mon [2]
Found this on Jaqueline Carey's FB page. This is a guy ranting at his friends for getting him hooked on the Kushiel series. I think we can all relate to having a friend hook us on addictive books!
I realize this won't appeal to everyone, but I was laughing out loud by the end.
Chapter 45
Fat Father Jordan, having been rescued from the Adorno by Crackbene, was now on Cyprus. Diniz is certain that his grandfather wishes to harm his new friend, Nicholas. Diniz requests an audience with FFJ, and is flatly denied. Even Primaflora cannot seem to change the old man’s mind.
Nicholas and le Grant enter Nicosia along with Ludovico, cloaked from the rain. The priest tells Diniz he can get him in to see FFJ.
Nicholas and Diniz are taken to an audience with Cropnose. Seated next to her are both Primaflora and FFJ. Cropnose explains that Nicholas has been charged with the murder of Diniz’s father and Katelina, and of being Nicholas’ slave-lover.
Cropnose questions Nicholas and Diniz, and the facts are made evident. Cropnose will not punish anyone; FFJ is technically a captive whose ransom has not yet arrived, and has no authority to bring charges against anyone.
All this time, Primaflora sat silently. She was wearing a necklace that Nicholas could not have afforded. She seemed to have a special place next to Cropnose, and this was not lost on Nicholas.
It is then announced by Cropnose that Zacco wishes to produce male heirs with Primaflora. P acknowledges before Nicholas that she has ‘found Apollo in the island of Apollo.’ Nicholas’ marriage to Primaflora will be dissolved by the king.
Chapter 46
Allowed to speak alone together one last time, Primaflora tells Nicholas that, when Zacco tires of her, she will return to him. As they share a passionate final kiss, there is a knock at the door. Nicholas predicts that it will be Loppe. Indeed it is Loppe, who holds an object and an envelope in his hands.
Nicholas asks Loppe to produce the object, the veil which Primaflora had once given to Katelina. The envelope contained the letter he had written on the Feast of St. Nicholas, just prior to his planned assault on Famagusta. Also inside was the small item he wished to give her. She read the letter. The exact wording of the letter is not made known to us, but judging by Primaflora’s response, Nicholas describes his suspicions that she tried to kill Katelina.
Truth be told, Nicholas had been using Primaflora all along in order to manipulate Zacco. And Primaflora had been using Nicholas in order to capture a king. Two skilled schemers at work.
The prize falls out of the envelope. It is the blue and silver emblem of the Order of Cuprus, awarded to him by both Carlotta and Zacco. ‘To remain loyal,’ it read. This is what Primaflora would have received had Nicholas died at Famagusta. It was his most prized possession, probably because it represented the culmination of his efforts in Cyprus, and now it belonged to his former wife.
Next morning Nicholas is awakened by Astorre, who wishes to inquire about the future of Nicholas’ army. The two men consider with regret that much of the world around them is at peace or something like it, offering little need for an army at the moment.
Seeking the advice of his other merry men, they discuss all the opportunities that lay before them, whether it be to remain on Cyprus, return to Bruges, go to Africa or Portugal. Apparently at this moment, the world is their oyster.
In the end, Nicholas decides to go where his bank is located – Venice.
Chapter 47 and Final
Zacco requests the presence of Nicholas at the Palace. He rides from his villa on Chennaa. He is Nicholas again, himself alone. No longer the king’s trusted friend.
Zacco, accompanied by a beautiful man, David de Salmeton, now bestows a silk and sable robe to Nicholas. David is an agent/broker for the Vatachino. He will see to Zacco’s many financial (and personal) interests.
Nicholas asks who the head of the Vatachino might be. David does not answer. (Please make note of this exchange for future reference.)
A clerk comes to the door announcing that Mick Crackbene had rescued FFJ and removed him from Cyprus. There would be no ransom received for de Riberac’s safe return, and Nicholas was wholly responsible for it.
Nicholas had also paid Diniz’s ransom. Both Diniz and his horrid grandfather were safely on their way to Portugal aboard the Doria, the ship Nicholas had once owned, but was now insured … by the Vatachino (under a pseudonym). Diniz was safe, FFJ was off the island and Nicholas would get paid for the Doria by his insurance company.
Nicholas decides to leave Nicosia for Kouklia. At his farewell audience with Cropnose, both accuse each other of ruthlessness. His farewell audience with Zacco was friendly but final.
Once again we have come to the end of another of Nicholas’ excellent adventures. I welcome your thoughts and comments in general on this tale.
Q1) Whom do you feel is the more complex character – Lymond or Niccolo? Why?
Last edited by author: Fri April 20, 2012 08:48:52
Edited 1 time.
Chapters 42, 43 and 44 -- Elaine (), 08:39:26 04/18/12 Wed [8]
The Citadel of Famagusta, now known as Othello's tower, was originally built as a moated citadel in order to protect Famagusta's harbor, and was originally the main entrance to the town. The tower was remodeled by the Venetian Captain Nicolo Foscareno in 1492. Above the main entrance, there is a sculpture of the winged lion of St Mark, the patron saint of Venice.
Chapter 42
The gates of the city of Famagusta are opened, and its new king, James of Lusignan makes a royal entrance. A formal ceremony is held in the courtyard of the Citadel, and Nicholas is made to attend to the king. Following the ceremony, Nicholas and Zacco have a discussion about his future role. Zacco suggests the role of deputy of Famagusta. Nicholas wishes to delay his decision.
Instead, Nicholas must convey to the king his concerns. Since speaking with Abul Ismail about the political ramifications that face Cyprus, and what power Uzum Hasan and Sultan Mehmet might invoke, there is the threat that Tzani-bey may impose a coup on Famagusta (he has fallen out of favor in Egypt) and massacre the king. Afterward, Nicholas believes Tzani-bey will ride triumphant into Nicosia. Abul Ismail also adds that, while Cyprus might be Tzani-bey’s prize, the destruction of Nicholas himself will prove to be his entertainment.
The king does not believe Nicholas; he says he is being deceived. Nicholas shares this same story about Tzani-bey with his cohorts and Diniz. Diniz now seems to feel a close kinship with Nicholas and wishes to stay to assist him. Nicholas feels it would be best if Diniz were to return to his mother.
The chapter ends with Nicholas providing Tobie with a letter in Katelina’s own hand, acknowledging that her son is also Nicholas’ son, and that, should something happen to Simon, he should be reared by Nicholas.
Chapter 43
Tzani-bey and Nicholas meet. Tzani-bey challenges Nicholas to a sword fight on horseback in Famagusta. Nicholas agrees, knowing that this duel is merely meant to allow for Tzani-bey’s army to enter the city in a coup. A gift is given to Nicholas from Tzani-bey, a beautifully made cloak. Nicholas asks that it be burned.
Two days later, the duel takes place. Both men and horses are fully capable. Tzani-bey pulls an iron bar from beneath the saddle, an illegal instrument more damaging than a mace. Both men eventually end up on the ground, facing each other for a fight to the finish of one of them. Zacco has a trumpet blown to demand a cease to the fighting, but both men ignore it. Nicholas is then able to defeat Tzani-bey with a blow that removes the emir’s hand.
Tzani-bey then tells Nicholas to get a ‘gift’ from underneath his horse’s saddle. It is the head of the physician, Abul Ismail.
Zacco tells Tzani-bey that Abul Ismail was a hero who had warned him of the attempted coup. Zacco’s men annihilated the 400 men serving Tzani-bey.
Then Zacco sliced off Tzani-bey’s head.
Chapter 44
Nicholas’s wounds are treated at the Franciscan monastery. He is determined to return to Nicosia and speak with Primaflora, but first, reliant upon a cane for walking, he makes the rounds, saying his goodbyes to the people he’s come to know in Famagusta. These people, still trying to recover from the siege, regard Nicholas as a gift sent from heaven.
Before returning to Nicosia, John le Grant visits Katelina’s tomb at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas. On top of her coffin was ‘a wisp of dry, plaited reeds whose significance, if any, was beyond him.’
On the road to Nicosia, le Grant and Nicholas run into Ludovico, who insists the two men join him for supper at his estate nearby. Ludovico explains to them that Venice was working in cahoots with Uzum Hasan, and that Crackbene is considered a hero for firing the cannon shot that destroyed the Adorno roundship.
Nicholas then learns from Ludovico that FFJ was the one non-Genoese on board the Adorno.
Q1) These chapters contained a lot of political intrigue. Dunnett does this well, but at times it is not easy to decipher. How do you react to these historical/political portions of her stories? Do they enhance the reading for you, or detract from it, in your opinion?
Last edited by author: Wed April 18, 2012 08:40:20
Edited 1 time.
Chapter 41 -- Elaine, 08:16:47 04/17/12 Tue [11]
Flag of Cyprus, adopted finally in 1960
White, with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities.
Chapter 41
The treaty is signed, and Famagusta can return to normal, at least for 12 months or until a rescue ship enters the port. Nicholas is able to spend more time caring for Katelina. Ironically he now learns the medicinal purposes of alum. Katelina seems to pin her hopes on a fleet of rescue ships.
Diniz and Nicholas have time to sort out their differences and find the strength to forgive each other.
Katelina, now clearly near death, warns Nicholas to stay safe from Simon’s vengeance.
Katelina dies after having learned that the Genoese vessel, the Adorno, has arrived in the harbor. Nicholas did not get to say farewell to her.
As the Adorno approaches the harbor, Zacco sends in two ships to halt her. The Adorno surrenders, and Zacco is assured now of his whole kingdom.
Q1) This chapter was pivotal on a couple of levels, both personal and political. But I think there was one exchange that really stuck with me. Nicholas asks Diniz, ‘What do you think you’ve been watching, these weeks? ‘ The boy’s eyes were dark and level, dense as the Arab’s. ‘Compassion?’ he said.
What did you witness these last weeks between Nicholas and Katelina?
Chapter 38
Nicholas and Astorre meet privately with Tzani-bey. They disclose their intention to launch a final assault on Famagusta within 3 days. Nicholas invites the Mamelukes to take part in the assault. Regardless of their participation, however, Nicholas is determined to attack the besieged city.
The emir admits that he was responsible for poisoning the food thrown over the wall. He will not participate in the assault on Famagusta; Nicholas will be left to do it on his own.
Nicholas challenges Tzani-bey to a public dual after Famagusta has been taken.
An unorthodox military approach was prepared for the assault involving a manmade mountain of rubble, tunnels and explosives.
Before the battle begins, Nicholas takes stock. All aspects of his life were now in order, as best he could manage them. Even his stepdaughters would be given security and safety. He had a letter and special package – his most cherished possession – ready for Primaflora should he fall in battle. He is ready.
Explosives in place, fuses were connected and lighted. A procession of churchmen torchbearers march in, offering pity and forgiveness. Nicholas never expected this attempt at a truce. The fuses now had to be extinguished. As le Grant and Nicholas finished tamping out the fuses, an arrow flew past. It had been shot by Diniz Vasquez as he defended the walls of Famagusta.
Chapter 39
Nicholas and le Grant are captured as spies in Famagusta. It becomes clear that Zacco had known of Nicholas’s plan to attack the city and was responsible for sending the churchmen. Conditions of the truce included two of Zacco’s men kept in Famagusta as insurance – these two would be Abul Ismail, the doctor, and Nicholas. The two prisoners are given a glimpse of some of the atrocities that occurred as a result of the siege.
Nicholas learns that Diniz is not alone. Katelina van Borselen is with him in Famagusta, and she is dying.
Chapter 40
Nicholas kneels at Katelina’s bedside. She is emaciated and in pain, although she denies her pain to Nicholas. The two of them weep.
Nicholas visits Katelina daily. She tried hard to stay awake for his visits. They talked, mostly of the past in Bruges. Abul Ismail tended to her medical needs as best he could.
Terms of the truce are revealed to Nicholas. The siege is to be lifted and to remain lifted for one year. After that, it can begin again, unless a rescue fleet can make its way into Famagusta’s port. The Genoese captain seemed determined that such a rescue would take place. Nicholas of course knew it was impossible, since the Genoese Republic is now virtually bankrupt. Famagusta has essentially signed a letter of surrender, although they won’t know it fully for another year.
Q1) What might be contained in the special package Nicholas has set aside for Primaflora should he fall in Famagusta?
Q2) What are you feeling now towards Katelina? Towards Diniz?
Q3) "Once, Abul Ismail said, ‘You do not eat. I have been watching. You are subject to marsh fever?’
‘I am subject only to grief,’ Nicholas said. He would have said it to no one else. It happened to be true.' ”
What do you make of this exchange? Why would Nicholas only have said this to Ismail and no one else?
Last edited by author: Sun April 15, 2012 16:41:21
Edited 1 time.
St. Nicholas Cathedral (currently a Mosque in the city of Famagusta)
Chapter 35
The chapter opens with Zacco proclaiming to Nicholas that they will celebrate his feast day (St. Nicholas Day, December 6) at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Famagusta. Nicholas and le Grant devise a plan of attack to finish off Famagusta based upon intelligence which revealed the city’s food and water stores were in low supply. It is late Fall – Advent, in fact. Loppe returns, having increased the sugar profits.
The plan to destroy Famagusta’s arsenal fails, however. Pesaro summons Nicholas to Sigouri where he tells him that only 2,000 citizens of Famagusta are still alive now, but those remaining are determined to fight to the bitter end because they still expect rescue by sea. Pesaro then reveals to Nicholas that, since December 6 is near but Famagusta remains under siege, Zacco will hold December 6 feast day celebrations in his own capital.
Chapter 36
The home of Nicholas and Primaflora is well appointed, and Tobie is frustrated by its opulence. Nicholas joins Tobie after having been gone for 5 weeks on the battlefield. It is the evenof St. Nicholas Day. Nicholas hopes to persuade Zacco to call a Christmas truce.
Primaflora tells Nicholas the sad news from Trebizond – the former emperor, David, has been killed along with most of his children.
A great procession in honor of St. Nicholas leads the town into the cathedral for the liturgy. Also attending the Mass is Ludovico de Severi da Bologna. Afterward, at Zacco’s palace, Nicholas was given a seat of honor next to the king. Two of the three Zorzi brothers were present, leaving only TGWTWL absent. Sor de Naves broke the news to Nicholas that Primaflora is barren, and that it has been common knowledge in Carlotta’s court.
Zacco adamantly refuses to allow for a Christmas truce with Famagusta. Nicholas then suggests that he lead an assault so as to finally bring an end to the siege. Zacco forbids this as well. Nicholas leaves the party with Ludovico.
Chapter 37
Ludovico and Nicholas meet up with Tobie and LeGrant. They arrive at the Dominicans abbey where they encounter Abul Ismail and Markios of Patras (Cropnose’s brother). Together they argue over the surrender of Trebizond, and Nicholas learns that Carlotta’s premature son, an heir to her kingdom, has died.
Markios would prefer that Nicholas lead an assault on Famagusta, clearly sharing his hatred of the people of that city, but he is aware that Zacco would never allow it. Nicholas then informs them all that he has decided to go against Zacco’s wishes and wage an assault anyway.
We learn that Nicholas was prepared for Zacco’s refusal for a truce. The water supply to Famagusta had been restored, and rations were sent over the wall even before Nicholas met with Zacco on St. Nicholas Day. They later learned those rations had been poisoned. Nicholas suspects Tzani-bey is responsible. The only alternative now is to launch an assault on Famagusta.
Q1) Regarding the announcement that Primaflora is barren: ”He hadn’t known. It didn’t matter. Now, it didn’t matter.” Why didn’t it matter now to Nicholas? Did it ever matter to him?
Q2) ”There were times when John le Grant wondered how Tobie managed to be such a very good doctor and yet fail to ask himself primary questions about Nicholas.” Is Tobie really clueless when it comes to Nicholas, or is Tobie simply in denial?
Q3) Was it wise that Nicholas took Famagusta into his own hands even before asking Zacco to consider a truce?
-Primaflora endures a very barbed interview with Zacco's mother
-Primaflora is told to go back to Rhodes and not come between Zacco and Nicholas. Primaflora protests and is told she can stay until the King says otherwise.
-Nicholas' estate produces a second good sugar crop and he allows himself to think of a potential future on Cyprus.
-Zacco agrees to allow Primaflora to stay
-Nicholas explains to Primaflora the reasons why Famagusta won't fall as easily as the other cities have.
-Primaflora tells Nicholas of her interview with Marietta and now with Zacco and that she has agreed to share Nicholas with him.
'He has always had hopes. They are always going to be disappointed. Primaflora, now he will blame you.'
Sorry I can't think of a question, and I apologize for taking so long with this, it's been busy with book stuff and I can't seem to get focused properly to get other things done.
Not sure if this is Zacco or Zacco's son in this image.
-Nicholas briefs Loppe on what happened on Rhodes- to a certain extent. We see how much better Loppe's understanding of Nicholas is with his one simple statement:
'No,' said Loppe. 'Stay. In the dark, it is peaceful. I shall leave you.'
-Nicholas rejoins his company, catches up with the news and is treated to everyone's opinion on his wedded state.
-Zacco is furious at Nicholas for his absence and also for his marriage. He tells Nicholas that he worries that Primaflora still works for Carlotta.
-Zacco insists that Nicholas get drunk with him.
-Zacco and Nicholas go hunting with the leopards.
-Astorre and Nicholas discuss the siege and Tobie joins them to talk about N's marriage.
Q. Tobie says he can think of three reasons why Nicholas would marry Primaflora. He mentions Henry, which Nicholas denies as a reason. What do you think the other two reasons are?
-We join Katelina at the Castle of the Knights of St. John.
-To her right, past the boat-crowded pool of St. Paul, the sea stretched blue to the next misty headland and disappeared south into the haze. Below the rock on her left lay the white scimitar of a strand, with beached boats cocked along it, and antlike figures asleep in their shade with the floss of netting around them. The sea, seen from above, was of a blue deep enough to be purple, paling as it washed to the beach over patches of grape-coloured rock. In other places, it was blue-green as malachite. A dyer's labourer would know how to mix up the colour.
-When going to water the cuttings, she finds they have already been watered (poisoned) by Nicholas.
-after a conversation about Zacco and Primaflora and in essence themselves, Katelina betrays Nicholas to the Knights.
-Nicholas, despite overwhelming odds, escapes. He holes up with Boulaki's aunt, Persefoni.
-Persefoni tells Nicholas that Katelina is going to be led into a trap and left to die.
The woman said, 'You mistake me. She may die. Death is simple. But for some, there are fates-'
'-worse than death,' Nicholas finished.
-Nicholas follows Katelina and the body of men paid to abandon her to her fate.
Chapter 32
-Perhaps one of my favourite chapters in all of Dunnett's work.
-Nicholas finds Katelina alone and clearly terrified. At first he thinks she is afraid of him, but soon realizes that the ravine is filled moths.
-In trying to free Katelina of the moths, Nicholas realizes her veil is soaked in storax.
-Nicholas tears her veil away and then rushes them both into the water.
-Nicholas and Katelina make love and then make love again.
-after they speak of many things- the genesis of her fear, Simon, Nicholas' mother, the plot against Katelina, Primaflora and her jealousy and the deal she made with Nicholas- that to keep Katelina safe he had to marry Primaflora, and of course, they speak of Henry. Nicholas tells her she must go back to Simon, raise their son and allow herself now to love him.
But as he grows...I should like to know something about him.
-Nicholas tells her he has already married Primaflora, as the price for his life and hers.
-It was then, resting his eyes on her face, that he saw how it had altered. The resentful anger had gone, and the desperation; and the beauty that had always been there had come to full flower.
-Nicholas, hung over, comes to the realization, brought on by a talk with Zacco, that his days of being Claes are truly over.
-Nicholas receives a letter from Gregorio and in it Gregorio warns him that Simon may soon come to Cyprus and also that abnormal business activity, not attributable to St. Pol and Vasquez, has been directed against his bank.
-Nicholas goes to see Zacco and has a conversation with the doctor Abul Ismail, in which much is revealed.
-Nicholas returns from the attack on Kyrenia to find Zacco angry at him for the attack. He eventually charms Zacco round, though Zacco is clearly still angered. When Nicholas says he was not invited on the King's hunt, Zacco replies, 'You are not in season.'
-Zacco tells him Diniz has escaped the dyeworks and Katelina has disappeared from Episkopi
-John and Nicholas discuss the idea that Katelina likely took cane cuttings away with her from Episkopi
-Nicholas leaves instructions for his people and sets off to follow Katelina to Rhodes.
Chapter 30
-Nicholas makes his way to Rhodes on a fishing boat, disguised quite happily as a humble fisherman.
-he learns of the various places where he might hope to find Katelina.
-he spends a night drinking and gambling with Boulaki (the former owner of the boat) and his cousins. Boulaki wakes him in the wee hours to warn him the knights are coming for him and now is his chance to escape. He pays for a mule and a boy to guide him and slips away.
The beauty of this next paragraph always stops me cold- she certainly wrote with her painter's eye.
-He saw they had crossed the island. A single line, fine as a scribe's, ran across his vision, and sharpened. Above and below it hung something that was not colour at all, except perhaps a deep pigeon-grey; or grey mixed with mother of pearl, or pearl mixed with rose madder, or all of that mixed with shearings of silver and gold...Mixed, thickened, ribboned, oh God, with vermilion. By God, who could afford all that vermilion, as He could afford ultramarine, and love, and revenge, and never get hurt.
-Nicholas is set upon and captured within sight of Lindos by four men
-he is taken to Primaflora, who paid Boulaki to bring him to her in Lindos.
-they talk of Katelina and the cane cuttings, of Carlotta and of why he has come to Lindos, whilst Primaflora rubs him down with scented oils.
-he asks her to marry him.
By then, he knew he could expect nothing more, having given her, he thought, what she wanted. He turned on his face when she left him, and in time his body obeyed him; and he lay as still as if he were sick in a pawnshop in Sluys, and had just met Simon of Kilmirren, and had just been introduced to a punishment from which there seemed no release.
Q1. Why do you think Nicholas is feeling the way he is described as feeling in the above paragraph?
Remains of the Black Madonna, Temple of Aphrodite, Cyprus
Chapter 27
-Nicholas recovers slowly and conducts his business, as well as taking stock of said business, from the comfort of his sickbed.
-John le Grant comes to visit, they all get drunk and Nicholas' temperature goes up and he starts to bleed again. Tobie returns him to 'prison conditions'.
-Nicholas will not admit Loppe in to see him for he thinks 'Loppe was the key, and needed meticulous handling'.
-when Nicholas is his own man again he gathers his crew around him to discuss business and unrolls his plans for the sugar estate.
-Nicholas meets with the King's mother. Her first question to him is if her son has taken him yet. Nicholas replies 'no'.
-Messers Loredano and Erizzo are later present at the meeting. They agree that Nicholas may buy up the Queen's eggs and purchase many laying hens and cockerels.
-Nicholas learns that Katelina is staying on the Corner estate for the summer, right next door to his own estate.
Q. What does Nicholas mean 'Loppe was the key?' The key to what?
Chapter 28
-we see Katelina in the company of the Princesses Fiorenza and Valenza. What follows is a beautiful descriptive passage about this part of the island.
-Katelina is taken to tour the sugar yards by Marco Corner and returns to find out that they are all invited to visit Nicholas' estate the following day.
-Nicholas greets his guests seated upon the camel, Chennaa
-Katelina questions Nicholas about the conical stone, only to learn that his estate is also the shrine of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love.
-Nicholas takes them on a tour of his yards, showing them the improvements and refinements he has made. It is a gesture of goodwill toward Marco Corner.
-at dinner Tobie and Jacopo Zorzi trade barbs. Zorzie then, rather maliciously, breaks the news that the Emperor David and his children have been thrown into prison.
-Zorzi speaks to Katelina, trying to manipulate her into approaching Nicholas about releasing Diniz, using Primaflora as leverage.
-we get a glimpse of Katelina's fear of moths here. Nicholas kills it quickly, showing us that he is well aware of her fear.
-we see an echo of Lymond here as Nicholas, upon being told that the Zorzi estate is in Engedi, recites part of the Song of Songs.
-the ending of this chapter is one of my favourite passages in this book.
Without a plinth, a god with a pure, Attic body stood, his curling head bent. Sweet in the night a man's voice murmured in Greek. 'Who dare to pasture his cattle in the lord's fold?' The fires flickered. The sea breathed in the distance. The same voice said, 'Whose then is the sacrifice? Male blood is all the altar will drink.' Then softly: 'Don't speak.'
Katelina knew by then whose the voice was; but could only guess who reclined at his feet. Then a woman said, 'You are foolish. First, my dear, you must learn. Marco and Luigi Martini are in dispute. The Knights and Martini have diverted the Kouris.'
'How sad,' Nicholas said, still in Greek. The glow from the fire lit his skin, and the linen draped over his shoulder and the still, classical line of his body. He said, 'You should have rope in your hair. Aphrodite will not accept it.'
'It is not, I hope, being offered to Aphrodite,' said Fiorenza of Naxos.
Q. Why is yet another Princess of Naxos bedding Nicholas? Is there anything to be gained from it, aside from the obvious? ;)
Sorry I am so behind. This grant proposal stuff and editing for the new editions of my first two books has got me snowed under. I will try to get the next two chapters up by tomorrow at the latest. -- cg, 13:29:28 04/01/12 Sun [6]
-We see Diniz in the dyeyard, plotting escape (which has been foiled more than once) and revenge on Nicholas.
-Nicholas arrives on the estate with Bartolomeo Zorzi, who has agreed to manage the dyeworks.
-Diniz learns that his grandfather has refused to ransom him and Simon has not put up a ransom for Katelina
-Diniz attacks Nicholas a couple of times and is disarmed before remembering there is an axe in a tub in the yard. He manages to grab it and sink it into Nicholas' shoulder. Zorzi debates with Diniz over whether they should save Nicholas' life, though it is more to prove a point to Diniz, than to actually allow Nicholas to die. He is saved, regardless, by the arrival of the King's men.
Remember, he could have killed you and didn't. He could have freed you, and didn't. He wanted you in his power. And he has his wish now, hasn't he, to a degree he hardly expected? You are at vander Poele's mercy. And at mine, of course, now.
Q. Why do you think Nicholas allows Diniz so much leeway in attacking him multiple times?
Chapter 26
-Nicholas awakes in pain, but very much alive. A tart conversation with Tobie ensues. He is told that Diniz is in a cell but that the King has been told a different story of how Nicholas' injury occured. Otherwise Diniz would be dead.
-Katelina is in his sickroom and wanting assurances that Diniz will not be punished for what she perceives is her punishment to take.
-Katelina finds out that Tobie and Godscalc know the true paternity of her son. Tobie, ironically, is very defensive of Nicholas when she attacks him.
-Zacco comes to visit and speaks with Katelina after checking on Nicholas. He tells her she must be banished to live with a family of good blood near Episkopi, so that there is no temptation to incite her nephew or to communicate with Famagusta or Kyrenia.
Something had to be done. Nicholas twitched his lips, without opening his eyes. He said, "I hope Abul Ismail can take the piss out of ermine.'
Q. Why do you think Katelina was dismissive of the rumours of Nicholas' supposed liaisons with other men, but a simple caress from Zacco makes her think otherwise?
Chapter 24 -- Carla, 14:40:13 03/25/12 Sun [3]
Nicholas leads the attack on St. Hilarion and discovers new facets of James, as they go to war together, and feels he was right to come and "discover" him no matter the outcome if the battle.
Nicholas tells Tobie he must leave to see Katelina as despite the fact the ransom money has come, something or someone is preventing Katelina & Diniz from leaving.
A captured spy complains of stomach troubles, courtesy of a wagon of tainted meat Toby & Abu Ismail sent down the road.
St. Hilarion is taken the next day, with Mameluke troops using naphtha to burn out the garrison. Tobie accuses Nicholas of sending them in to burn women & children. Instead, he finds that the Arab doctor had used a poisonous dose of herbs on the meat, killing women & children.
Nicholas again asks Tobie to come to the sugar plsntation with him, as men there are dying of a mysterious illness.
Was it just the offer of the sugar plantation that tempted Nicholas, or was there more to it?
Why does John le Grant alone keep his personal distance from James?
Chapter23 -- Carla, 14:38:04 03/25/12 Sun [6]
Katelina wakes, not sure of where she is, only hoping it is far away from the threatening presence of Nicholas.
Katelina's guardian, a noblewoman, has no liking for her and taunts her with Nicholas' success & Diniz's work in the fields. Katelina now thinks of Nicholas' promise to be close by as a threat.
Diniz, she learns, is staying with Nicholas and is also working at a dye works. Katelina is offered the choice of staying with the ladies of the court or going to the nuns. She chooses the nuns. Diniz comes to visit, a changed young man.
Nicholas has been sent north, set a series if arduous tasks by the king. Nicholas finally reaches his limit & confronts the King. He offers counsel on how to bind the men to him & how to win his campaign.
Questions: On waking, Katelina thinks of Nicholas first as Nicholas and then as Claes. Why the old nickname if she hates & fears him so much?
What do you think of the way Nicholas handles James? Is James stable?
It is well-known & doesn't seem to be considered a scandal that the king has make & female lovers. Is he allowed this leeway because of his power or do you think society at the time & in that place didn't think it an issue?
Chapter 22 -- Carla, 14:34:57 03/25/12 Sun [2]
The ship arrives in Salines & the men are disembarked. There is no sign of the women. Nicolas is told by Tzani-bey that he, his men, Diniz, Primaflora & Katelina will be taken to the king. Nicolas & his men to be executed, the others to act as witnesses.
On arrival at Kiti, the officers & Diniz are locked in a room. Later they are taken to bathe & returned to their room. Throughout Nicolas remains oddly silent. Diniz confronts Nicolas, who asks that when they are brought to the King, he be allowed to speak first as he knows him, and Diniz should only speak after if he is dissatisfied with what Nicolas has said.
Brought before the King, it seems that de Lusignan's orders differed slightly from Tzani's actions. He offers Lomellini his freedom for a ransom. The king then reveals that he received a note from Nicolas saying that he was being forced to serve the Queen & asking for rescue. Primaflora, he says, will be sent back to Carlotta, but Katelina will stay. Nicolas asks the king to allow Primaflora to stay and to return Katelina to her husband. He refuses, saying he means to hold Katelina & Diniz for ransom.
Questions: Do you think the Emir over-reached his orders, or did de Lysignan mean to keep them in terror until the last minute?
Was Nicolas simply hedging his bets or did he prefer to fight for James over Carlotta?
Is de Lusignan sexually enamoured of Nicolas?
Why does Tobie persist in thinking Nicolas wants to kill Diniz & Katelina?
Nicolas is kept confined to the Grand Commander's cabin. Primaflora manages to get in to see him & warns that Katelina & Diniz are on board only to cause him harm. Primaflora promises to come to Famsgusta with Nicolas, rather than go on to Kyrenia with the others. Nicolas reveals he has a plan for revenge against Tzani-bey al-Ablak.
When Primaflora leaves, Nicolas thinks of how Zacco has said his men will be killed if they come to the aid of Queen Carlotta.
Nicolas sees Diniz on deck one day & assures him he didn't kill his father & tells him to talk to Tobie for help.
Two Mameluke ships are spotted, but the Grand Commander orders Nicolas & his men to remain locked up, but he returns quickly to free Nicolas & his commanders, but not the soldiers. Loppe knocks the Grand Commander out, so Nicolas can release his men.
Nicolas and Lomellini come up with a battle plan. When Nicolas meets John le Grant he learns their attackers are James de Lusignan's men in service to Zacco with Tzani in charge. He orders the ship to come to Salines so Nicolas & his men can be taken & promises the rest will be sent on their way.
Question: What do you think Nicolas means when he says he was "afraid . . . of being trapped by his own fascination" for sailing, navigation & progressions of sound and that "one should school such emotions."
Checking to see if I can remember how to post pictures. If it works, then this is St. Hilarion Castle from Chapt. 24 -- FranS, 14:03:05 03/23/12 Fri [5]
Nicolas is held separate from the others, who speculate as to his condition, what's gone before, Katelina's involvement & their future. They see that Diniz and Katelina are unable to leave due to bad weather.
The Genoese rescue Nicolas from a rock-throwing Portugese mob & Imperiale Doria & Nicolas discuss trade & Nicolas' best course of action on Cyprus. He is encouraged to focus on war for the time being to aid in the swift removal of Venice from the island. By way of a bribe, he is offered trade with Maderia - the home of Vasquez & St Pol.
Nicolas is taken to the Queen & her consort. A strained, cold meeting. Both the Queen & the Genoese want Nicolas separated from his men. He argues for them to be together & asks for the hand of Primaflora & is denied both.
The company are put on board ship in a fierce storm. Nicolas is brought on board at the last minute with the commander of Famagusta. Nicolas' men worry that they will be landed separate from him. Primaflora comes aboard as the ship is just underway - most likely against the Queen's wishes. Katelina, it turns out, is also on board. And Diniz.
Questions: Why do you think Katrlina chose to come on thc same ship as Nicolas?
Why did Primaflora defy the Queen?
What is Nicolas up to, that the presence of Katelina, Diniz & Primaflora will derail his plans?
Does Nicolas truly love Primaflora? Does she love him?
Race of Scorpions by Dorothy Dunnett -- Carla, 19:40:21 03/19/12 Mon [6]
First, I'm sorry to be late with my chapters! I meant to get them all typed up and sent to Nalana in case I got called to a birth and, well, it didn't happen and I've been at two births today -- one of which started yesterday.
I'm going to do three chapters today to catch up.
Chapter 17 The joust is off, as the group ride to the aid of the Vasquez father & son. The searchers - including Primaflora & Katelina - meet up with Loppe, who has found the bodies of the Vasquez' servants. Ser Tristao is found dead, killed by an arrow.
Chapter 18 They find Diniz alive and relatively unharmed, hiding in a cave nearby. He reports there were four attackers. Another shot is fired at Katerina, going through her cloak. When Nicolas says he will give Chase, Primaflora tells him to let others go, so he will not be blamed if something goes wrong.
Nicholas, Astorre & Toby corner two men in an abandoned farm building. Astorre kills both men & Toby accuses Nicolas of getting exact what he wanted. When they rejoin the others Katerina accuses Nicolas of being behind the killings. Without their noticing, Nicolas, Astorre & Toby are surrounded by Knights of the Order & Nicolas posits they are about to pay for foiling somebody's plans. They are met at the gates of the Orders stronghold by John de Kinloch, whom Nicolas had previously kidnapped, and who Nicolas says will hang them if Katerina doesn't.
Questions Who do you think I'd behind the attack? Why did Astorre kill the men? How did Nicolas, Astorre and Toby, all soldiers, not notice that they were being surrounded?
Chapter 19 After two days of confinemt with all his men, Nicolas is brought begone the Grand Master of the Order for judgment. There he told them of his plans for the future. Nicolas is questioned by the Grand Master & his motives and past acts examined. Queen Carlotta sends a man to say she will take custody of Nicolas and his men.
Questions What do you think is the last piece of Nicolas' puzzle? Why did the Queen save him from banishment & disgrace?
From Wikipedia: Melusine legends are especially connected with the northern, most Celtic areas of Gaul, and the Low Countries. Sir Walter Scott told a Melusine tale in The Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border (1802–1803) confident that
“the reader will find the fairy of Normandy, or Bretagne, adorned with all the splendour of Eastern description. The fairy Melusina, also, who married Guy de Lusignan, Count of Poitou, under condition that he should never attempt to intrude upon her privacy, was of this latter class. She bore the count many children, and erected for him a magnificent castle by her magical art. Their harmony was uninterrupted until the prying husband broke the conditions of their union, by concealing himself to behold his wife make use of her enchanted bath. Hardly had Melusina discovered the indiscreet intruder, than, transforming herself into a dragon, she departed with a loud yell of lamentation, and was never again visible to mortal eyes ; although, even in the days of Brantome, she was supposed to be the protectress of her descendants, and was heard wailing as she sailed upon the blast round the turrets of the castle of Lusignan the night before it was demolished.”
Chapter 15
Nicholas realizes by the size of this escort that the meeting he is about to have with Carlotta is a serious one. On the way he sees Father Ludovico da Bologna. In their short conversation, Ludovico is non-committal and insulting.
Nicholas arrives as a rather formal gathering of the Queen, her husband and her ladies of honor. During this meeting Nicholas is congratulated for joining the Queen’s cause and is knighted as part of the Order of the Sword.
Nicholas’s men are freed from the prison and given the home of the Grand Commander as a temporary residence. Loppe reports back to them what has just occurred between the Queen and Nicholas.
When Nicholas returns John and Tobie seem to interrogate him about which side he’s chosen and his oath to the Queen. During the conversation, Nicholas says: ‘I went to the Palace to join the Queen’s party. I’m not going to complain if they make me King of the Bean as an extra.’ (p. 159). It is obvious to him it is an illusion and trick of the Queen. Nicholas informs his men of his agreements with the Venetians and his plan to fight on Zacco’s side of the war.
Chapter 16
Katelina waits impatiently for word from the Palace. When the messenger arrives with the news she is shocked to find he has not been denounced, but rather been given a knighthood.
Openly upset, Tristao tries to calm Katelina and find out what offense Nicholas has made against her and Simon. He does not see him in the same way she does. Katelina goes into a tirade that include the idea that Nicholas would just as certain harm the Vasquez men as he would her or Simon. Diniz interrupts their discussion with even more news – Nicholas is to marry Primaflora. They are all concerned for her safety and Katelina says she will try to speak to her to warn her of Nicholas deviousness.
Primaflora receives word from Katelina that she would like to meet with her about Nicholas. Primaflora, who has been acting as the perfect attendant to the Queen, takes the note to the Queen and reports Katelina’s concern about Nicholas. Katelina and Primaflora meet and Katelina is full of warnings for Primaflora.
After her meeting with Katelina, Primaflora is told by her attendant that her betrothed is in a room right there in the same building as her meeting with Katelina. Primaflora is openly upset as she considers Nicholas early for their meeting. She meets Nicholas in the hall way, he is presently dressed as Guinevere for a jousting contest. He notices that there is a commotion down stairs and Katelina comes running out accusing Nicholas of killing someone. She says that Tristao and Diniz have gone missing. Nicholas insists to take his men to be a part of the search. Both women race after Nicholas to join in the search.
Q1. What did you think of the Queen's knighting of Nicholas?
Q2. Nicholas men interrogate him fiercely about his oath to the Queen. Why do they not see the ruse?
I don't have a question about Chapter 16, but it's full of intrigue and strategy between the three women. Any comments?
Anyone recognize the Melusine photo up there? And what did you think of the myth (although there are many) that happens to have Lusignan in it? :-)
Last edited by author: Sat March 17, 2012 18:02:18
Edited 1 time.
Chapter 13
“Nicholas embarked for Rhodes at dawn the following morning, accompanied by Primaflora his mistress. The Vasquez, father and son, went on board with them, and no screaming, dishevelled priest appeared to warn them that they were sharing their trip with a murderer.” (p. 131). Vintage.
On ship, Nicholas works out an inexact plan for what to do with Simon when he meets up with him in Rhodes. He assumes Simon will be there to meet the Vasquez men. Nicholas passes the time with the Vasquez’s, the son being interested in hearing about Nicholas adventures in Trebizond.
The ship is pilfered by pirates. Nicholas works out that it is some sort of payback for sugar trade dealings that had gone awry in the past. Diniz is injured trying to act against the pirates. Nicholas spends time helping to care for Diniz head wound.
As they arrive to shore, Nicholas is scanning the crowd for Simon. Instead, he see’s Katelina.
Chapter 14
The chapter begins from the perspective of Katelina. She has been pining away for 2 years to get the chance to get even with Nicholas, and hopefully have killed. She orchestrated the trip to Rhodes once she found out Nicholas would be arriving there. She took it upon herself to use her family name to get the ear of Queen Carlotta and the Knights of the Order to tell them who Nicholas really was. Her testimony against Nicholas gets Astorre and his men put into custody.
At the docks, Katelina is prepared to have Nicholas dealt with. She greets the Vasquez men, but requests the Grand Commander join their company. Nicholas brings Primaflora to meet Katelina. He knows that he is “found out” and that the Vasquez will be told who he “really is” by Katelina.
Nicholas party is detained, but ultimately their presence is requested by Queen Carlotta. Nicholas, Primaflora and their servants are escorted to an inn so they can get settled and be properly presented to the Queen. Nicholas was given a servant who was from the Grand Commander’s household. That servant ended up being Loppe, who is now called Lopez. Loppe fills Nicholas in on all that’s happened until now with Astorre, Le Grant, Thomas and Tobie.
Q1. Katelina's hatred of Nicholas just drips off the page. What are your thoughts on her bitterness and anger?
Q2. Nicholas faces Katelina on the docks. At that moment, did you think it was a wise move?
Q3. Why does Nicholas want Primaflora to believe that he has no feelings for Katelina?
Last edited by author: Thu March 15, 2012 12:03:03
Edited 2 times.
Chapter 11
Nicholas leaves the King’s palace and stays with the Venetians. After his initial arrival, he meets with Loredano and discusses the terms that might make him fight alongside the King. He seems to have thought out his moves overnight and is checking off each achievement toward that end goal during the conversation.
Primaflora is housed as an honored guest with the Knights of St. John. She spends her days in quiet talks, walking in the garden and prayer – playing her part as an attendant to Queen Carlotta.
During this chapter the reader learns how the Knights of St. John survive with the many power struggles that have occurred on the island. They make a strong presence and give loyalty in exchange for being left alone, for the most part. They are sugar traders as well.
It is at the Knights compound that Primaflora meets two Portuguese men.
Chapter 12
“Whatever fate watched over Nicholas it was not a benign one, or it would have warned him not to go to Kolossi. He had no premonitions.” (p. 119). Vintage.
Nicholas arrives at Kolossi with confidence after two successful meeting in regards to his terms for serving Zacco. He meets the Knights and has a quiet dinner that includes Primaflora. They quietly discuss his injuries and his plans. Primaflora also informs Nicholas that John of Kinloch is also expected to return to the castle in a few days.
Nicholas meets the two Portuguese men and finds out that the father is in business with Simon. Worried that John of Kinloch will blow his cover with Vasquez, Nicholas devises a plot to have him temporarily kidnapped so he can get on the ship to Rhodes with his plan still intact.
Q1. “He wondered with uncharacteristic bitterness why his game should be spoiled at the outset by the hand which, always, came over his shoulder and changed the pieces. Taking up the thread of his life, he had stumbled upon an amusement, an interest, even an absorption. He had abandoned Bruges, and Geneva, and Venice. But the past had risen up once more to frighten and plague him.” (p. 123). Vintage.
Nicholas is caught off guard by his past – does this show hopefulness or disillusionment in his planning?
Q2. Primaflora seems to be able to see through Nicholas’ many faces. Is her training as a courtesan helpful in her relationship with Nicholas?
Current map of Cyprus – divided after a Turkish invasion in the 1970’s.
Chapter 9
Under tight security, Nicholas and Primaflora continue on the Doria to Cyprus. They spend their afternoons “in practice” and talking about their plans. Nicholas is pretty clear that he doesn’t want to serve King James or Queen Carlotta, but would pick the Queen between the two of them for Primaflora’s safety. He feels she would be unsafe in the King’s possession. As they talk, it is clear neither have any illusions about their relationship, but they both feel a sense of dedication to each other.
As the Doria lands at Cyprus, we are given a short history of the island and the politics surrounding the Lusignan rule of the island.
Nicholas and Primaflora are taken to a monastery and are treated as special guests. Nicholas is sequestered with his captors over a meal and his captors reveal that they are Venetian traders who suffer under James rule. They are being paid to bring Nicholas to the King. They explain what the King wants from Nicholas and implore him to cooperate for his own personal benefit.
Their discussion is cut off at the meal and Nicholas and Primaflora (who is “half-naked”) are taken away by Tzani-bey al-Ablak, lord of the Mamelukes of Cyprus.
Chapter 10
We are given further details about the relationship and struggles between Queen Carlotta and King James. We are also introduced to James mother, Marietta, who they call Cropnose.
Nicholas is presented to Marietta by Tzani-bey and she believes he is dead or near it. She and a man named Markios believe Nicholas has been called to James for questioning because they believe he is loyal to Carlotta. Once Tzani-bey is excused from the room, assistance is immediately brought to Nicholas. It was Zacco who arrived and brought water to Nicholas. Zacco tells his mother this treatment was a mistake, he was summoned because of his expertise in business and campaigning.
After he is able to rest, Nicholas and Zacco talk about what Zacco needs from Nicholas. Nicholas is then told he is to send for his army as they have arrived in Rhodes. The King tells Nicholas that he can decide not to work for him and that he will not be harmed if that is his decision.
Q1. “I wish I were dead, and had sown no seed, and had left no one to suffer. He thought, not of the usurping royal bastard and his Egyptian hordes, but of a Greek with a wooden leg listening somewhere, amused. And of his grandfather, Jordan. He didn’t know why he thought of them.” (p. 85). Vintage.
Why do you think Nicholas is thinking of these men as he prepares to land on Cyprus?
Q2. Nicholas is being courted by two royal entities. What do you think is the most valuable trait Nicholas has that they are looking for? And what does this say about his reputation?
Race of Scorpions
by Dorothy Dunnett The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
2011
Juliet by Anne Fortier Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen Cleopatra: a life by Stacy Schiff Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant Spring of the Ram by Dorothy Dunnett Room by Emma Donoghue The Stolen Child by Keith Donohue
2010
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel Niccolo Rising by Dorothy Dunnett A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell The Help by Kathryn Stockett *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
2009
Crow Lake by Mary Lawson The Granny by Brendan O'Carroll The Chisellers by Brendan O'Carroll The Mammy by Brendan O'Carroll Cape Random/Random Passage by Bernice Morgan Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears by Cindy Brandner Exit Unicorns by Cindy Brandner Ringed Castle by Dorothy Dunnett Checkmate by Dorothy Dunnett
2008
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman Saturday by Ian McEwan Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë The Disorderly Knights by Dorothy Dunnett Pawn in Frankincense by Dorothy Dunnett
*Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer *The Host by Stephenie Meyer
2007
Mermaid in a Bowl of Tears by Cindy Brandner Exit Unicorns by Cindy Brandner Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley *Twilight by Stephenie Meyer *New Moon by Stephenie Meyer *Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
2006
Exit Unicorns by Cindy Brandner The Game of Kings by Dorothy Dunnett Trinity by Leon Uris Queen's Play by Dorothy Dunnett
Lil, 06:47:36 05/23/12 Wed [3] 
I'm struggling for questions for some reason. Please feel free to ask or add anything to the discussion. :-) (NT) -- 
Tagging on a late question: What do you think he means by "sown no seed and left no one to suffer"? Is he referring to his son or his business or his relationships or D. All of the above. :-) (NT) -- 
