Chapter X explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Art and Commerce

  Colonel Woodburn argues that art is subjugated to commercial values, and Beaton's internal conflict reflects the tension between artistic integrity and financial necessity.

• Capitalism and Moral Compromise

  The Colonel's critique of commercialism as corrupting gentlemanly feelings and Beaton's bitterness about being 'bought up' highlight the moral compromises inherent in capitalism.

Characters to notice

• Angus Beaton

  Feels sick of himself and his life, bitter about being bought up by Fulkerson, and conflicted about his feelings for Alma. He returns her design and agrees to a business-only relationship.

• Alma Leighton

  Receives Beaton coldly, treats their interaction as purely business, and shows no romantic interest in him.

• Colonel Woodburn

  Argues that commercialism corrupts society and art, defends the idealized Southern system, and discusses the South's material progress.

• Miss Woodburn

  Teases her father about his hobbyhorse and comments on the commercialism affecting his book.

• Mrs. Leighton

  Feels hurt on Alma's behalf when Beaton leaves for a reception, and listens to Colonel Woodburn's arguments.

Key passages

• “How can a businessman, whose prosperity, whose earthly salvation, necessarily lies in the adversity of someone else, be delicate and chivalrous, or even honest?”

  Colonel Woodburn argues that a businessman's success depends on others' failure, making it impossible for him to be truly honorable.

  Highlights the theme of capitalism and moral compromise.

• “The final reward of art is money, and not the pleasure of creating.”

  Colonel Woodburn asserts that in a commercial society, art is valued only for its monetary return, not for the joy of creation.

  Illustrates the conflict between art and commerce.