Chapter 10, Personal Vices Summary

At two o'clock one afternoon Petrus and Paulo come across a medieval column supporting a cross; it is a road marker for pilgrims. Petrus tells Paulo to kneel before it so that they can offer a prayer concerning Paulo's personal vices. These vices are the only thing that could potentially defeat Paulo after he finds his sword. Petrus then speaks a lengthy prayer asking God to pity people who eat and drink but are still unhappy; who fear death; who consume themselves with affairs of the heart; for those who do not believe in anything spiritual, and for those who are concerned only with their own lives. When he finishes praying Petrus sits quietly staring across the surrounding wheat fields.

Chapter 10, Personal Vices Analysis

Petrus' prayer is a little out of place and disconcerting. The guide rambles on naming...