Ivan's poem begins with the arrival of Christ in Seville, Spain which is the historical seat of King Ferdinand's power, and the epicenter of the Inquisition's atrocities. Ivan is careful to note this isn't the coming of Christ predicted in the New Testament, just a coming of Christ, documented nowhere. This day follows a particularly cruel day in Seville. Close to 100 heretics had been burned "ad majorem gloriam Dei" (for the greater glory of God) at the behest of a cardinal who carries the title "The Grand Inquisitor."
The inhabitants of Seville immediately recognize Christ, surrounding him, genuflecting, and kissing the ground He walks on. Ivan says the best part of his poem is this immediate recognition of Christ by the people of Seville, but gives no reason for it here. Ivan continues.....
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