Bardo de' Bardi

Book I

A blind scholar and collector of antiquities, representing the old world of classical learning and its fading influence.

The Barber's Shop

A blind scholar and collector, mentioned as a potential patron for Tito. He is described as having a beautiful daughter, Romola, and as being too poor to buy Tito's gems.

V: The Blind Scholar and His Daughter

The blind scholar, bitter about his lost sight and unfulfilled work. He laments the lack of a fitting coadjutor and expresses a low opinion of the feminine mind, though he shows tenderness towards Romola.

VI: Dawning Hopes

Blind scholar who welcomes Tito and envisions a collaborative scholarly work.

A Learned Squabble

Mentioned as the one who recommended Tito to Scala, described as a worthy scholar who overvalues himself.

XI: Tito's Dilemma

Bardo is in his study with Romola, receiving Tito's visit.

XII: The Prize Is Nearly Grasped

Shows new vigor and cheerfulness, eager to expand his scholarly work with Tito. He gives a tentative blessing to the marriage, but insists on consulting Bernardo del Nero first.

XIX: The Old Man’s Hope

Blind and aging, hopeful about securing his library's future; largely unaware of the extent of his debts.

XX: The Day of the Betrothal

Walks in the procession, led by Tito and Romola, and insists on the ceremony at Santa Croce.

Book II

Bardo is a blind scholar who is impressed by Tito's learning and welcomes him into his home. He is a symbol of the old Florentine intellectual world, which is being challenged by new political and religious forces.

XXVII: The Young Wife

Recently deceased; Romola feels guilt over her hope for a new life with Tito and is committed to fulfilling his wish for the library catalogue.

XXVIII: The Painted Record

His portrait as Oedipus is the reason for Romola's visit, symbolizing her devotion and the fading memory of her father.

XXXI: Fruit Is Seed

Though deceased, Bardo's presence is felt through his portrait and the ongoing concern for his library. Bernardo reflects on Bardo's fiery youth and his lifelong devotion to his books.

XXXII: A Revelation

Romola's father is mentioned as the one whose wishes she is trying to honor, and whose trust Tito has betrayed.

XXXVI: Ariadne Discrowns Herself

Though deceased, Bardo's memory looms large as Romola mourns the loss of his library and his lifelong hopes, feeling his presence in the desolation.

LXI: Drifting Away

Mentioned in memory as Romola recalls reading Boccaccio to him in her girlhood. This memory contrasts her past life of learning and duty with her present state of hopeless drifting.

LXIX: Homeward

Romola's indignant grief for her godfather no longer has complete possession of her, as she begins to question the justness of her own conclusions and deeds.