Venantius's Discovery and Death

The Greek scholar's quest for Aristotle's lost book and his fatal encounter with the poisoned pages.

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The Scholar's Curiosity

A Man of Learning Venantius's Skills Venantius of Salvemec is a translator of Greek and Arabic. He is deeply interested in Aristotle's works. He has heard rumors of a lost book on comedy hidden in the library. The Clue from Berengar During the debate on laughter, Berengar of Arundel hints at the existence of the finis Africae. Venantius realizes that the forbidden book might be there. He presses Berengar for more information. The Secret Revealed Berengar, wanting to impress Adelmo, reveals how to enter the finis Africae. Venantius overhears and decides to investigate on his own. He steals into the library at night.

The Night in the Library

Reading the Forbidden Text Entering the Finis Africae Venantius uses the secret passage to enter the finis Africae. He finds the composite volume containing Aristotle's Poetics II. He begins to read eagerly, taking notes. The Poison Takes Effect As he reads, the poison on the pages enters his system. He feels ill and tries to leave. He makes it to the kitchen, where he collapses. He dies near the sink, a broken cup beside him. The Body Moved Berengar, who has followed Venantius, finds the body. Fearing discovery, he drags it to the jar of pig's blood and throws it in. He hopes to make it look like an accident. The coded notes Venantius left behind will lead William to the truth.

Before the second day

Night of the first day