We remain with the Violas in this chapter, and receive so much background information on Giorgio as to make us think he is a major character -- which he is not. In fact, after this chapter he makes only a few minor (but telling) appearances in the novel. The primary importance of Giorgio's background lies not in Giorgio himself, but in the dream-ideal it illustrates. His history is one of passionate devotion to a cause, expressed over years of horrific warfare, finally ending in defeat and disillusionment. In all aspects it serves as a microcosm of the great dream-ideals that will dominate the novel.