The Columbiad · Chapters
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Chapter companions for The Columbiad by Joel Barlow.
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Chapter 1
Epigraph
The epigraph from Tasso's Gerusalemme Liberta invokes Columbus as a figure whose future voyages will surpass the fame of ancient heroes, suggesting his deeds will be worthy of epic poetry and history.
Chapter 2
The Columbiad
The opening of the epic poem invokes the muse and sets the stage for the story of Columbus and the discovery of America, blending mythological and historical elements to frame the narrative of exploration and the founding of a new world.
Chapter 3
Book I
Columbus, imprisoned in Valladolid, laments his fate and the ingratitude of Spain. The guardian spirit Hesper appears, consoles him, and leads him to a mount of vision where he sees the future of the American continent, its geography, and the promise of freedom.
Chapter 4
Book II
Columbus, guided by Hesper, witnesses a vision of the native peoples of America, their diverse tribes and customs. He questions the causes of human diversity across regions. Hesper explains that variations in climate, soil, and elemental proportions shape both body and mind. Columbus then views Mexico and its destruction by Cortez, and the cities of Cusco and Quito in Peru. Hesper recounts the tradition of Capac and Oella, founders of the Incan empire, revealing the stratagems they used to establish their rule, including feigning divine descent from the Sun. The chapter concludes with Hesper consoling Columbus about the future tyranny of Pizarro and the enduring value of his own discoveries.
Chapter 5
Book III
The Inca Capac faces a massive invasion by mountain savages. His son Rocha is sent to offer peace but is captured. During the battle, an eclipse terrifies the Peruvians, who flee to Cusco. Oella mourns Rocha, but the sun returns, revealing Rocha alive on an altar. The Peruvians rally, defeat the savages, kill Zamor, and recover Rocha, establishing peace.
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