Lud-in-the-Mist · Question
How does Lud-in-the-Mist develop the theme of Law and Justice?
Answer
Lud-in-the-Mist by Hope Mirrlees develops Law and Justice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The legal system of Dorimare is portrayed as a tool for control and a form of delusion in itself, yet it is also used by Nathaniel as a weapon to uncover truth and seek justice against hidden crimes.
The Senate's enforcement measures and Nathaniel's efforts to stop smuggling highlight the struggle for legal control over fairy fruit.
The trial is bogged down by absurd legal fictions (treating fruit as silk), and Dame Marigold's interrogation reveals potential conspiracy, questioning true justice.
Nathaniel and Ambrose's discovery leads to plans for arrest, highlighting the tension between legal order and the subversion of that order by smugglers.
Evidence in the book
- XI: A Stronger Antidote Than Reason
The Senate's enforcement measures and Nathaniel's efforts to stop smuggling highlight the struggle for legal control over fairy fruit.
- XII: Dame Marigold Hears the Tap of a Woodpecker
The trial is bogged down by absurd legal fictions (treating fruit as silk), and Dame Marigold's interrogation reveals potential conspiracy, questioning true justice.
- What Master Nathaniel and Master Ambrose Found in the Guildhall
Nathaniel and Ambrose's discovery leads to plans for arrest, highlighting the tension between legal order and the subversion of that order by smugglers.
- XIV: Dead in the Eye of the Law
The chapter revolves around legal fictions: Nathaniel calls for the death penalty under the law, while Polydore invokes an ancient statute that could legally depose the mayor.
- XV: “Ho, Ho, Hoh!”
The Senate's legal maneuvers—declaring Nathaniel dead—highlight the tension between formal law and true justice.
- The Widow Gibberty's Trial
The chapter centers on a trial where legal procedure and evidence ultimately acquit the widow, despite popular suspicion and superstition.
- XVII: The World-in-Law
Nathaniel plans to use the law to trap Leer, viewing it as a net to catch shadows and a tool against fairy delusion.
- XVIII: Mistress Ivy Peppercorn
Nathaniel's pursuit of justice for Farmer Gibberty, personifying the law as a 'tiger' that must spring on its prey, drives the chapter's action.
