Chapters 11-12 Summary

Life quickly returns to normal in Višegrad. Yellow military vehicles deliver things never seen before, and soldiers take over the kapia until fall. Civil servants then arrive with families, followed by artisans and craftsmen whose short stays become permanent. The newcomers are never at peace or allow others to be. Almost imperceptibly they change the appearance, customs, and habits of Višegrad. Many of their tasks seem silly but are done with care and zeal, and months later become new regulations that curtail liberties and increase obligations. Inside their homes, people live as they have for centuries, but outwardly old and new ways clash, mingle, and coexist. Few struggle against innovation like stubborn Shemisbeg Banković who comes out only to pray in the mosque, talks to no one in the marketplace, allows no innovation in his house, and even withdraws...