Baldassarre Calvo

Romola

An older figure whose past connection to Tito introduces themes of revenge and justice.

A Man's Ransom

Tito's adoptive father, whose possible enslavement weighs heavily on Tito's conscience.

XI: Tito's Dilemma

Baldassarre is the absent benefactor whose fate Tito is trying to ignore.

Book II

Baldassarre has arrived in Florence and recognizes Tito in the Duomo, but Tito denies knowing him. He is a figure from Tito's past, representing the betrayal that Tito is trying to escape.

The Prisoners

Baldassarre is a prisoner of the French, refusing to beg despite his harsh treatment. He confronts Tito with a fierce gaze before disappearing into the church.

XXIII: Afterthoughts

Baldassarre is present in Florence as a prisoner, appearing wild and possibly mad, but Tito knows his passionate nature will seek revenge.

Inside the Duomo

Enters the Duomo as an escaped prisoner, bound with a rope. He is consumed by hatred for Tito and finds Savonarola's threats of divine vengeance deeply resonant.

XXV: Outside the Duomo

Freed from his bonds by Piero di Cosimo, he remains suspicious and refuses further aid, driven by his quest for revenge.

XXVI: The Garment of Fear

Though not present, Baldassarre's memory haunts Tito, who winces at the thought of deliberately inflicting suffering on his father.

XXIX: A Moment of Triumph

Mentioned by Piero as the 'old fellow' who vanished after the French arrived. He is later seen in the crowd, a clean-shaven man whose gaze meets Tito's, suggesting a moment of recognition.

XXX: The Avenger's Secret

Baldassarre is consumed by vengeance, yet haunted by his failing memory and the fear of being unrecognized. He reflects on his past and his discovery of Tito's betrayal.

XXXIII: Baldassarre Makes an Acquaintance

Finds shelter in an outhouse on the hill of San Giorgio, near Tito's dwelling. He is weary and focused on his quest, but shows a moment of mildness with Tessa.

No Place for Repentance

Imprisoned and consumed by rage, he sharpens his poniard, dreaming of plunging it into Tito's heart.

XXXVIII: The Black Marks Become Magical

His memory has returned, and he is now wholly consumed by his desire for vengeance against Tito. He carefully stalks Tito, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

XXXIX: A Supper in the Rucellai Gardens

Interrupts the supper to accuse Tito of betrayal, but is rendered speechless by rage and shock, failing to provide proof.

Book III

Baldassarre confronts Tito, demanding recognition, but is denied and taken away. He is later found and cared for by Romola, who learns of Tito's betrayal through him.

XLII: Romola in Her Place

Found collapsed on the street, possibly alive, and is cared for by Romola and a stranger.

XLIII: The Unseen Madonna

Romola intends to search for Baldassarre after the procession, feeling a near claim upon him. His fate remains a concern for her.

XLIV: The Visible Madonna

Shows a marked change, appearing fierce and suspicious. He recognizes Romola as Tito's wife and, after refusing her shelter, takes her money and heads to a weapon shop.

XLVIII: Countercheck

Referenced by Romola as the old man she saw in the Duomo and later revived. Tito falsely claims he is dead, but Romola knows he is alive.

L: Tessa Abroad and at Home

Baldassarre observes Tessa and Romola together, realizing that Romola is Tito's wife. He sees her as a potential ally in his quest for vengeance against Tito.

A Prophetess

Baldassarre appears at the end of the chapter, confronting Romola in the church, likely seeking information about Tito.

On San Miniato

Baldassarre reveals his identity as Tito's adoptive father and seeks Romola's help in exacting revenge. He is consumed by his desire for vengeance.

The Evening and the Morning

Romola's anxiety about losing sight of him persists.

LV: Waiting

Does not appear in the chapter, but his absence is a central source of Romola's anxiety and speculation; she fears he may be dead or have forgotten her.

LXVII: Waiting by the River

Waiting by the river, Baldassarre sees Tito in the water and, upon his landing, seizes him and kills him.