Gregor and the Curse of the Warmbloods
Chapter 7
by Suzanne, Collins,Gregor is overwhelmed with nausea after witnessing the horrific condition of his bat, Ares, who is suffering from a deadly plague. Ares lies severely ill, with burst purple bumps oozing pus and blood, his tongue coated white, and his breathing labored. A sympathetic woman named Susannah comforts Gregor and leads him to a bathroom, where he vomits repeatedly. She reassures him that his reaction is normal, explaining that even seasoned soldiers struggle with the sight of plague victims. Gregor, embarrassed, worries about Ares seeing his distress, but Susannah assures him the bat was asleep.
Susannah reveals her identity as Howard’s mother and a visitor from the Fount. Gregor recalls her son, Howard, who accompanied him on a previous quest. As they talk, Susannah tearfully discloses that Howard and his bat, Andromeda, have also contracted the plague, though their symptoms are less advanced. Gregor reflects on his own luck at being uninfected, speculating that his Overlander immunity or vaccinations might have protected him. He expresses disbelief, given his close contact with Ares, and Susannah suggests his immunity may be unique.
Gregor gathers his composure and asks to see Howard and Ares again, promising not to vomit. Susannah takes him back to the glass-walled corridor, where he bravely faces Ares’s suffering. The bat briefly regains consciousness, and they share a silent moment of solidarity. Susannah then leads Gregor to Howard and Andromeda, who are playing chess and appear less severely affected. Howard is visibly relieved to see Gregor, asking about Boots. Their reunion is cut short when Neveeve, the dedicated plague doctor, enters to administer treatment.
As Gregor leaves, he encounters Mareth, another familiar face, alive and well in the hospital. The chapter ends with Gregor’s relief at seeing Mareth, hinting at the emotional toll of the plague and the resilience of those fighting it. The interactions highlight the bonds between characters and the looming threat of the plague, while also underscoring Gregor’s growth in facing adversity with courage and empathy.
FAQs
1. How does Gregor initially react to seeing Ares’s condition, and what does this reveal about their bond?
Answer:
Gregor’s physical reaction to seeing Ares—violent vomiting, sweating, and shaking—demonstrates the depth of their bond and the horror of Ares’s condition. The graphic description of Ares’s plague symptoms (bursting purple bumps, oozing pus, labored breathing) shocks Gregor so profoundly that he empties his stomach repeatedly. This visceral reaction underscores Gregor’s emotional connection to Ares; he isn’t just a companion but a cherished friend whose suffering distresses Gregor deeply. His later shame over the reaction (“I’m so sorry”) and his effort to compose himself for Ares’s sake further highlight their mutual care, as seen when Ares weakly lifts his claw in response to Gregor’s hand on the glass.
2. What role does Susannah play in this chapter, and how does her character provide insight into the Underland’s societal structure?
Answer:
Susannah serves as both a compassionate guide for Gregor and a window into Underland’s interconnected society. As Howard’s mother and the daughter of Vikus and Solovet, she embodies the close-knit, hierarchical nature of Regalia’s leadership families. Her calm demeanor during Gregor’s distress (“Do not be [ashamed]”) reflects Underlander resilience, while her tears over Howard’s illness humanize the plague’s toll on even the most esteemed families. Her presence also reinforces the theme of duty—she visits the hospital despite personal grief, mirroring the Underland’s collective struggle against the plague. Her dialogue reveals how familial and societal roles intertwine (e.g., mentioning her husband, a soldier, fainted at plague victims).
3. Analyze the significance of Gregor’s immunity to the plague. What possible explanations are suggested, and why might this be important later?
Answer:
Gregor’s immunity (“I can’t believe I don’t have it”) introduces a critical plot point. Susannah hypothesizes that Overlanders may have innate immunity, possibly due to surface-world vaccinations or biological differences. This raises stakes: if Gregor’s immunity can be replicated, he might hold the key to a cure. The detail that Boots was also tested hints at future medical exploration. Additionally, Gregor’s exposure to Ares without infection contrasts with Howard and Andromeda’s cases, suggesting transmission nuances (e.g., direct contact vs. airborne). This immunity could position Gregor as a healer or target in the plague’s resolution, adding tension to his role as the “Overlander.”
4. How does the chapter depict the psychological and physical toll of the plague on both victims and observers?
Answer:
The plague’s brutality is shown through both physical decay (Ares’s grotesque symptoms, Howard’s walnut-sized bump) and psychological trauma. Gregor’s vomiting and Susannah’s mention of nightmares (“wake up screaming”) illustrate how witnessing the plague scars even bystanders. Howard and Andromeda’s chess game contrasts with Ares’s agony, showing varying stages of illness, while Neveeve’s protective gear underscores its contagious terror. The Underlanders’ coping mechanisms—Susannah’s stoicism, Howard’s attempt at normalcy via chess—reveal a society grappling with fear. The plague isn’t just a disease; it’s a “Curse” that tests bonds, courage, and hope.
5. Evaluate the symbolic meaning of the glass walls in the hospital. How do they reflect themes of separation and connection?
Answer:
The glass walls physically separate the healthy from the infected but also frame moments of poignant connection. Gregor’s hand pressed against the glass mirrors Ares’s claw lift—a muted yet powerful affirmation of their bond despite isolation. The walls also emphasize vulnerability: Howard’s joy at seeing Gregor through the glass contrasts with his confinement, highlighting how the plague enforces emotional and physical divides. Yet, the transparency allows for unspoken solidarity (e.g., Susannah’s reassurance, Howard’s smile). The glass thus becomes a metaphor for the Underland’s crisis: barriers are necessary for safety, but human (and bat) connections persist through them.
Quotes
1. “Gregor had never seen anything so frightening in his life.”
This quote captures Gregor’s visceral reaction to seeing Ares afflicted by the plague, emphasizing the horror of the disease and its physical toll. It marks a turning point where Gregor confronts the brutal reality of the Underland’s dangers.
2. “It is a very fearful thing.”
Susannah’s observation about reactions to the plague underscores the universal terror it inspires, whether in soldiers or civilians. This quote highlights the psychological impact of the plague beyond its physical symptoms.
3. “Perhaps, as an Overlander, you have some immunity that Underlanders do not.”
Susannah’s speculation about Gregor’s potential immunity introduces a key thematic element - the biological/cultural differences between Overlanders and Underlanders. This becomes crucial to the plague’s dynamics and possible cure.
4. “Gregor mustered every ounce of strength he had and gave Ares what he hoped was an encouraging smile.”
This moment of silent communication between Gregor and Ares demonstrates their deep bond and Gregor’s growth in facing difficult situations. It shows his determination to support his friend despite his own fear.
5. “Neveeve is extremely dedicated… She is determined that we will cure ‘The Curse of the Warmbloods.’”
This quote introduces both Neveeve’s character and the plague’s ominous nickname, foreshadowing future developments. It suggests the disease’s historical significance and the high stakes of finding a cure.