Who Father Jerome is
Father Jerome shelters Isabella in the church of a nearby convent after she escapes from Manfred. He has strong views about right and wrong, and his protection gives her a refuge from the prince. In a story filled with supernatural warnings, Jerome speaks for conscience and the law of the Church.
What Father Jerome wants
Jerome refuses to hand Isabella over when Manfred arrives demanding her return. He tells Manfred that his proposed divorce from Hippolita goes against the law of the Church. His resistance challenges the prince's attempt to use marriage to preserve his family line.
Father Jerome and the others in the story
Isabella finds shelter with Jerome after fleeing through the passages beneath the castle. Manfred wants to marry her himself, but Jerome will not help him carry out that plan.
The quarrel between the friar and the prince becomes a continuing struggle over power and conscience. Manfred threatens Jerome and reminds him that the convent depends on his favour. Their conflict shows how protecting someone vulnerable can bring a person into opposition with a powerful ruler.
Questions
Who is Father Jerome?
Father Jerome is a stern friar who protects Isabella and opposes Manfred's marriage plans.
Why does Father Jerome oppose Manfred?
He objects because Manfred's plan to divorce Hippolita violates the law of the Church. He also refuses the prince's demand to surrender Isabella.
How does Father Jerome help Isabella?
He shelters her in the convent church when she seeks safety from Manfred. His refusal to return her makes him an opponent of the prince.
