The Duel and Reconciliation

Traces the conflict between Nathaniel and Lothar and its resolution through Clara's intervention.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Lothar's anger

The Defending Brother The Insult Nathaniel called Clara an 'automaton' and ran away. Clara told Lothar what happened. Lothar, loving his sister, felt a spark of anger that flared into wild fury. The Challenge Lothar found Nathaniel and reproached him harshly. Nathaniel replied in kind, leading to a heated argument. They decided to duel with rapiers behind the garden. The Preparation They arranged for the duelling master to bring swords at dusk. Both were determined to settle the matter.

Clara prevents the duel

The Intervention The Discovery Clara heard the argument and saw the duelling master. She guessed what was about to happen and rushed to the garden. The Plea She found the two men with their coats off, ready to fight. Sobbing, she cried out, 'Cut me down right this moment before going at it with each other!' The Reconciliation Lothar lowered his sword. Nathaniel fell at Clara's feet. The three embraced, weeping, and swore to hold by their love.

Three blissful days

The Peace The Healing Nathaniel felt a heavy weight lifted. He spent three happy days with Clara and Lothar, free from dark thoughts. He believed he had saved himself from annihilation. The Return to Studies Nathaniel returned to G. to complete his year of study, promising to return for good. They kept the story of Coppelius from his mother. The False Security This peaceful interlude was the calm before the storm. Nathaniel's obsession with Olympia would soon destroy everything.

After Nathaniel's outburst in the garden

At dusk, at the duelling ground

Immediately after the reconciliation