# Tito Melema — Romola character guide > Tito Melema in Romola by George Eliot. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Tito, Messer Tito, Messer Tito Melema, Melema **First appearance:** 0003-i-the-shipwrecked-stranger ## Snapshot A charming Greek scholar whose gift for pleasing everyone hides a talent for slipping out of every debt he owes. ## Who they are Tito arrives in Florence with looks, learning, and an instinct for making himself useful to the powerful, and quickly becomes the kind of man everyone is glad to see. Yet his ease conceals a growing dread of displeasure: he cannot bear Romola's anger, cannot face Baldassarre, and cannot stop spinning a web around Tessa that he tells himself is kindness. His early choices — the library, the secret household, the small evasions — quietly set the terms of the tragedy that will close around him. ## Relationships ### [Tessa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/tessa) _romantic_ Tessa is Tito's secret wife and mother of his children, living in ignorance of his other life. ### [Girolamo Savonarola](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/girolamo_savonarola) _rivalry_ Savonarola opposes Tito's worldly and corrupt influence, viewing him as an enemy of morality. ### [Piero di Cosimo](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/piero_di_cosimo) _friendship_ Piero is an artist and friend of Tito, but he becomes suspicious of Tito's character and motives. ### [Bernardo del Nero](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/bernardo_del_nero) _rivalry_ Bernardo distrusts Tito and opposes his influence over Romola, seeing him as a threat. ### [Dolfo Spini](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/dolfo_spini) _rivalry_ Spini is a political adversary of Tito, engaging in power struggles and mutual suspicion. ### [Tessa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/tessa) _romantic_ Tessa is Tito's secret wife and mother of his children, living in ignorance of his other life. ### [Piero di Cosimo](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/piero_di_cosimo) _friendship_ Piero is an artist and friend of Tito, but he becomes suspicious of Tito's character and motives. ### [Girolamo Savonarola](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/girolamo_savonarola) _rivalry_ Savonarola opposes Tito's worldly and corrupt influence, viewing him as an enemy of morality. ### [Bernardo del Nero](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/bernardo_del_nero) _rivalry_ Bernardo distrusts Tito and opposes his influence over Romola, seeing him as a threat. ### [Piero di Cosimo](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/piero_di_cosimo) _friendship_ Piero is an artist and friend of Tito, but he becomes suspicious of Tito's character and motives. ### [Tessa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/tessa) _romantic_ Tessa is Tito's secret wife and mother of his children, living in ignorance of his other life. ### [Bernardo del Nero](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/bernardo_del_nero) _rivalry_ Bernardo distrusts Tito and opposes his influence over Romola, seeing him as a threat. ## In the story ### [Romola](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/romola) A charismatic and ambitious figure whose actions drive much of the plot's conflict. ### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/book-i) Introduced as a handsome and learned Greek scholar newly arrived in Florence, immediately engaging with the city's social scene. ### [II: Breakfast for Love](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/ii-breakfast-for-love) A young stranger, hungry and without money, who charms Tessa into giving him breakfast. He is identified as a Greek by Nello. ### [The Barber's Shop](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/iii-the-barber-s-shop) A young Greek scholar newly arrived in Florence, seeking patronage and opportunity. He is witty, adaptable, and somewhat cynical about the city's charms. ### [IV: First Impressions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/iv-first-impressions) Arrives at Nello's shop, seeks to pawn a ring, and is noted for his striking appearance and scholarly demeanor. ### [VI: Dawning Hopes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/vi-dawning-hopes) Presented to Bardo as a Greek scholar; his charm and beauty immediately affect Romola. ### [A Learned Squabble](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/vii-a-learned-squabble) Visits Scala to sell his gems and ingratiate himself, skillfully flattering the secretary by criticizing Politian's work. ### [A Face in the Crowd](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/viii-a-face-in-the-crowd) Observes the procession, shows interest in a friar's face, and greets a contadina, revealing his social ease and hidden anxieties. ### [A Man's Ransom](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/ix-a-man-s-ransom) Struggles with the moral dilemma of using his money to ransom his father or pursuing his own ambitions in Florence. ### [X: Under the Plane-Tree](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/x-under-the-plane-tree) Shows his carefree and pleasure-seeking nature, avoiding unpleasantness and delaying his duties to enjoy Tessa's company. ### [XI: Tito's Dilemma](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xi-tito-s-dilemma) Tito is in a state of inner turmoil after Fra Luca's recognition, but he resolves to conceal his past and rationalizes his abandonment of Baldassarre. ### [XII: The Prize Is Nearly Grasped](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xii-the-prize-is-nearly-grasped) Feels immediate fear has vanished and is buoyed by the prospect of seeing Romola. He asks Bardo for Romola's hand, but feels a 'spring of bitterness' from his past deceit. ### [XIII: The Shadow of Nemesis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xiii-the-shadow-of-nemesis) Tito is consumed by anxiety and fear as he anticipates that Romola's dying brother, Dino, will expose his betrayal of Baldassarre. He feels his carefully constructed life in Florence beginning to crumble. ### [XIV: The Peasants' Fair](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xiv-the-peasants-fair) Wanders through the fair, feeling the dreariness of his uncertain future. He finds a temporary escape in the crowd and in Tessa's adoring trust, allowing her to believe they are married. ### [XV: The Dying Message](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xv-the-dying-message) Mentioned as not being with Bardo, his guilt shaping his destiny and leading him to believe Romola knows of his betrayal. ### [XVI: A Florentine Joke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xvi-a-florentine-joke) Feels the first heavy consequences of his actions after selling the ring; is uneasy and avoids Tessa, but is stirred by news of Monna Ghita's death. ### [Under the Loggia](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xvii-under-the-loggia) Anxious about his secret, he is relieved by Romola's ignorance and attempts to dismiss her spiritual concerns, focusing on their love. ### [XVIII: The Portrait](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xviii-the-portrait) Feels exultant at being free from the threat of Baldassarre, but is haunted by a portrait that reveals his hidden fear. ### [XIX: The Old Man’s Hope](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xix-the-old-man-s-hope) Rising in favor with Cardinal Giovanni de' Medici and Florentine society; actively managing Bardo's affairs and winning Bernardo's respect. ### [XX: The Day of the Betrothal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xx-the-day-of-the-betrothal) Orchestrates the betrothal day, presenting a painted tabernacle to hide the crucifix, and dismisses Romola's fears. ### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/book-ii) Tito is charming and ambitious, enjoying his rise in Florentine society. He is secretly married to Tessa and has betrayed Baldassarre, his adoptive father, by denying him and selling his ring. ### [Florence Expects a Guest](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxi-florence-expects-a-guest) Mentioned as Romola's husband, whose fate is linked to the political changes in Florence. ### [The Prisoners](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxii-the-prisoners) Tito is confronted by Baldassarre, his adoptive father, and denies knowing him. He appears changed, having adopted a role in life, and is now serving as an interpreter for the French. ### [XXIII: Afterthoughts](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxiii-afterthoughts) Tito is consumed by fear and regret after his impulsive denial of Baldassarre, contemplating deceit and defensive measures rather than confession. ### [XXVI: The Garment of Fear](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxvi-the-garment-of-fear) Tito, burdened by hidden anxieties and the fear of Baldassarre's recognition, buys a coat of mail for protection, reflecting his growing paranoia and guilt. ### [XXVII: The Young Wife](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxvii-the-young-wife) Returns home cold and distant, reveals he is wearing chain-armour due to threats, and asks Romola to keep it a secret. ### [XXVIII: The Painted Record](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxviii-the-painted-record) Though not present, his image in Piero's sketch and the associated fear and armor weigh on Romola's mind. ### [XXIX: A Moment of Triumph](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxix-a-moment-of-triumph) Carried triumphantly through the piazza, he announces Piero Capponi's success in securing an honorable treaty. He relishes his role as a popular orator, but his moment of triumph is cut short when he spots a man in the crowd who seems to know him. ### [XXX: The Avenger's Secret](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxx-the-avenger-s-secret) Tito is the object of Baldassarre's vengeance, having sold the ring and abandoned his father. His actions are recalled with bitterness. ### [XXXI: Fruit Is Seed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxi-fruit-is-seed) Tito avoids Romola's caress, revealing his inner turmoil over his decision to sell the library. He feels dread and unease about the impending collision with his wife. ### [XXXII: A Revelation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxii-a-revelation) Tito reveals he has sold the library and antiquities, locking Romola in to prevent her from seeking help. He remains calm but is internally anxious. ### [No Place for Repentance](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxiv-no-place-for-repentance) Torn between seeking forgiveness from his father and maintaining his secrets; seeks comfort in Tessa's simple devotion. ### [XXXV: What Florence Was Thinking Of](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxv-what-florence-was-thinking-of) Tito is relieved that the threat from Baldassarre has diminished and is increasingly drawn to the political games of Florence, viewing life as a game of skill and chance. ### [XXXVI: Ariadne Discrowns Herself](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxvi-ariadne-discrowns-herself) Tito informs Romola of his sudden trip to Rome, showing a cold indifference to her emotional state, and his presence only intensifies her resolve to leave. ### [XXXVII: The Tabernacle Unlocked](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxvii-the-tabernacle-unlocked) Though absent, Tito is the recipient of Romola's farewell letter, in which she declares her love for him dead. ### [XXXVIII: The Black Marks Become Magical](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxviii-the-black-marks-become-magical) Attends a supper at the Rucellai Gardens, unaware that Baldassarre is following him. He is confident and at ease, surrounded by influential men. ### [XXXIX: A Supper in the Rucellai Gardens](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xxxix-a-supper-in-the-rucellai-gardens) Attends the supper, is courted by the Medicean party, and publicly denies Baldassarre, calling him a mad servant. ### [Book III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/book-iii) Tito is awakened by his troubled conscience and is confronted by Baldassarre. He denies knowing him and later decides to sell the ring to sever his ties with his past. He also becomes more involved in Florentine politics, aligning with the Medici faction. ### [XLIII: The Unseen Madonna](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xliii-the-unseen-madonna) Tito arrives as a messenger with news of the French galleys' safe arrival, bringing hope to Florence. His return is noted by Romola without a flash of joy, hinting at the strain in their relationship. ### [XLIV: The Visible Madonna](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xliv-the-visible-madonna) Though not present, his past actions and the mystery surrounding them are central to the chapter, as Baldassarre's hatred and Romola's fears revolve around him. ### [XLV: At the Barber's Shop](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xlv-at-the-barber-s-shop) Returns from Pisa, delivers diplomatic report, seeks a shave at Nello's shop, and discreetly gathers information about Giannozzo Pucci's whereabouts. ### [XLVI: By a Street Lamp](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xlvi-by-a-street-lamp) Meets Romola by chance, reveals knowledge of a plot against Savonarola, and uses force to prevent her from intervening. ### [XLVII: Check](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xlvii-check) Finds his clever arrangements frustrated by trivial incidents. He is annoyed and feels helpless when confronted by Romola, experiencing a feeling near hatred for her. ### [XLVIII: Countercheck](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xlviii-countercheck) Determined to assert mastery over Romola, he coldly warns her against interference. He deflects her questions about Baldassarre with a false story and begins to contemplate leaving her. ### [XLIX: The Pyramid of Vanities](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/xlix-the-pyramid-of-vanities) Mentioned as having reserved a window for Romola and Brigida to view the Carnival scene, though he is not present in the chapter. ### [L: Tessa Abroad and at Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/l-tessa-abroad-and-at-home) Tito visits Tessa and the children, feeling relief and fondness in their presence, a contrast to his growing dislike for Romola. He grants Tessa permission to see the Carnival. ### [A Prophetess](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lii-a-prophetess) Tito is mentioned indirectly through Romola's dread and Baldassarre's presence, hinting at his ongoing betrayal and the looming conflict. ### [On San Miniato](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/liii-on-san-miniato) Though not present, Tito's betrayal is the central subject of the conversation, with Baldassarre detailing his lies and abandonment. ### [LV: Waiting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lv-waiting) Spends most of his time in the country, avoiding the city and his wife, which prevents any confrontation about Baldassarre's accusations. ### [LVI: The Other Wife](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lvi-the-other-wife) His secret marriage to Tessa is revealed to Romola. He returns home expecting Romola's agitation, indicating he is aware of her discovery. ### [LVII: Why Tito Was Safe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lvii-why-tito-was-safe) Betrays the Medicean conspirators to secure his own safety, revealing his duplicity and self-serving nature. ### [LVIII: A Final Understanding](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lviii-a-final-understanding) Attempts to manipulate Romola by suggesting she use her influence with Savonarola, while defending his own actions. ### [LIX: Pleading](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lix-pleading) Mentioned in Romola's thoughts as she reads about the second plot, leading her to believe he has secured his safety through foul means. ### [LX: The Scaffold](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lx-the-scaffold) Feels grim relief at Bernardo del Nero's impending death, viewing it as a necessary guarantee of his own safety and a solution to the threat Romola poses. ### [The Benediction](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxii-the-benediction) Observes the scene from a loggia, offering a cynical commentary on the crowd's shifting mood. ### [LXIII: Ripening Schemes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxiii-ripening-schemes) Tito is actively manipulating both the Arrabbiati and the public, interpreting Savonarola's theses to his own advantage. He is also planning his departure from Florence, having arranged for a potential successor. ### [LXIV: The Prophet in His Cell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxiv-the-prophet-in-his-cell) Tito cunningly manipulates Savonarola into giving him the letter, while secretly planning to have it intercepted by Milanese agents. He also reveals his intention to leave Florence. ### [LXV: The Trial by Fire](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxv-the-trial-by-fire) Tito watches the trial from a window of the Old Palace, feeling self-satisfied that his intrigues have contributed to Savonarola's downfall. He anticipates leaving Florence soon and views the trial as a mere comedy. ### [A Masque of the Furies](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxvi-a-masque-of-the-furies) Mentioned as the object of Spini's wrath, having betrayed him and spoiled his plans. ### [LXVII: Waiting by the River](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxvii-waiting-by-the-river) Fleeing Florence, Tito is attacked by a mob and leaps into the Arno to escape, but is later caught by Baldassarre. ### [LXVIII: Romola’s Waking](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxviii-romola-s-waking) Mentioned in Romola's dream of the Bargello, representing the past she is trying to escape. ### [LXIX: Homeward](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/lxix-homeward) Romola's memory of her life with him and the impossibility of their union is a central source of her internal conflict. She feels dread at the thought of seeing him again but also unease at not knowing his fate. ### [Epilogue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/chapters/epilogue) Referenced in Romola's story as the man who, seeking safety and pleasure, committed base deeds and denied his father, leading to his downfall. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters/tito_melema - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/romola_se/characters