Questions and Answers
How long is it estimated to take to build the fortress?
What action did William suggest to do with the builders?
What did Burroughs think about being booed and jeered at by the crowd?
What did the wealthy merchant think about using his house as a prison?
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What did Burroughs see when he looked out the window?
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What was the immediate situation of Burroughs and Edgar when they arrived at Westminster Abbey?
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What was the king’s reaction upon seeing Burroughs and Edgar?
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What did Burroughs inadvertently ask the king?
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What adornments was the king wearing?
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What advice did Edgar give to the king?
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Study Notes
Setting and Characters
- Burroughs and Edgar are seized by knights and taken to Westminster Abbey.
- The location is described as a well-decorated small room with knights standing guard.
- A prominent character, King William, enters, depicted with a blustering attitude and luxurious clothing.
Dialogue and Conflict
- Burroughs inadvertently questions King William's ability to speak English, highlighting the tension between the characters.
- William showcases arrogance, claiming it is vital to learn the language of the country being invaded.
- Edgar attempts to downplay their situation by humorously addressing the King while simultaneously deflecting fault to Burroughs for their predicament.
King’s Command and Irony
- William accuses Burroughs and Edgar of being assassins and orders their imprisonment.
- It's revealed that a tower for their imprisonment has not yet been constructed, indicating inefficiency in the King's rule.
- A knight’s explanation about the delay in tower construction introduces irony, as the King is concerned about his coronation while facing administrative absurdity.
Imprisonment and Setting Changes
- The King orders Edgar and Burroughs to a dungeon, which is humorously noted as potentially non-existent.
- They are instead confined to a merchant's townhouse, illustrating the clash between nobility and common citizens.
- Burroughs observes their brass creation from the window, hinting at its importance for their escape or survival.
Themes and Stakes
- Urgency is emphasized in Burroughs’ perspective as he understands the need for a plan to avoid execution.
- The situation reflects themes of power dynamics, misunderstandings, and survival in a foreign and hostile environment.
- The mockery from the crowd during the coronation contrasts the seriousness of Burroughs and Edgar's plight, amplifying their desperation.
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Description
Dive into Chapter 3 of our Science Fiction narrative, where Burroughs and Edgar face unexpected challenges upon their arrival at Westminster Abbey. The tension escalates as they encounter knights and a sharp sword, heightening the urgency of their situation. Test your understanding of this gripping chapter with our quiz.
