Hadrian the Seventh · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Hadrian the Seventh by Frederick Rolfe.

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Chapter 1
Dedication
A brief dedication of the book to the author's mother.
Chapter 2
Hadrian the Seventh
The chapter introduces George Arthur Rose, a struggling English priest who feels isolated and unappreciated. After a series of personal and professional disappointments, he is unexpectedly elected Pope, taking the name Hadrian the Seventh. The chapter explores his initial shock, his determination to reform the Church, and his immediate actions upon assuming the papacy, including renouncing temporal power and planning to disperse Vatican treasures.
Chapter 3
Prooimion
George Arthur Rose, a frustrated and impoverished writer, reflects on his past struggles with the Church and his persistent belief in his divine vocation to the priesthood. Despite years of rejection and hardship, he remains determined to pursue his calling, even as he grapples with physical pain and creative block. The chapter also hints at mysterious events unfolding in Rome and the horrors of Russia.
Chapter 4
I
The chapter critiques the incompetence of journalists covering the Conclave in Rome, highlighting their inability to grasp deeper truths due to reliance on superficial methods and lack of scientific or intuitive understanding.
Chapter 5
II
The Conclave continues with the cardinals employing the Way of Compromise, appointing nine Cardinal-Compromissaries to elect a new pope. After multiple scrutinies and accessions, no candidate achieves the required majority, resulting in black smoke from the Vatican chimney. Private negotiations and canvassing intensify as the cardinals prepare for further votes.

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Dedication

Hadrian the Seventh

Prooimion

I

II