Hyperion, Part 2, Chapter 4 summary

What happens

1. Von Kleist invites Flemming and the Baron into a noisy student tavern to watch the proceedings.
2. Newcomers pass beneath crossed swords, receive cork mustaches, and enter to a song led by the President.
3. Students ignite paper in the Branders’ hair as they ride sticks around the table, before the President gives advice.
4. A pale student wins a three-goblet drinking challenge, while his opponent collapses drunk.
5. Von Kleist marches along the table with a sword, breaking glasses until someone throws beer in his face.
6. Von Kleist receives six challenges and fights over six days, suffering wounds to his lip and eyelid.

In this chapter

What to notice

Flemming treats rank and outsider status as reasons to enter freely. His comment establishes his role as an observer of unfamiliar student customs.

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