Manfred

The Chamois Hunter has brought Manfred to his home. The Chamois Hunter respectfully notes that Manfred is a lord and asks about where he is going, but Manfred refuses help and says he has no cares for his high status. Realizing that Manfred is in a crisis, the Chamois Hunter urges him to seek solace in religion, but Manfred rejects this suggestion.

Out of hospitality, the Chamois Hunter offers Manfred wine. However, the wine sends Manfred into a delirious rave about the mingling of his blood and his beloved’s blood, which “ran in the veins of my fathers” (52). He expresses shame at having loved Astarte, but insists that he has harmed no person. The Chamois Hunter counsels Manfred to overcome his madness, and does not want to leave the tortured man. Manfred feels certain that he is doomed. The scene closes with the Chamois Hunter offering prayers for Manfred, who states “I need them not, / But can endure thy pity” (56).

Manfred, alone again, visits a cataract, or waterfall, in the Alps. He experiences the “loveliness” of the landscape, remembering how he loved being in nature in his youth.