# XXXVI explained — A Pair of Blue Eyes

> Chapter companion for A Pair of Blue Eyes by Thomas Hardy.

## What happens

John and Mrs. Smith, now living near St. Launce's, experience a sudden rise in social status due to their son Stephen's success in India. They are visited by local dignitaries and receive newfound respect, leading Mrs. Smith to insist they never mention Elfride Swancourt to Stephen again.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Ambition

The Smiths' sudden rise in social standing due to Stephen's success highlights the fluidity of class and the importance of ambition.

### Sacrifice and Duty

Mrs. Smith's insistence on never mentioning Elfride reflects a parental duty to protect Stephen's future.

## Character check-ins

### John Smith

Now running a stone and slate yard near St. Launce's; puzzled by the sudden friendliness of townspeople.

### Mrs. Smith

Delighted but suspicious of the social attention; insists on cutting ties with Elfride Swancourt.

### Stephen Smith

Absent in India; his professional success is the cause of his parents' new social standing.

### Elfride Swancourt

Mentioned only as someone Mrs. Smith wants to erase from Stephen's memory.

## Key lines

> In writing to Stephen, never by any means mention the name of Elfride Swancourt again.

Mrs. Smith instructs her husband to avoid any reference to Elfride in letters to Stephen.

_Shows Mrs. Smith's determination to sever Stephen's emotional ties to Elfride._

> It must be a proud moment for you, I am sure, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, to have a son so celebrated.

The bank manager congratulates the Smiths on Stephen's fame.

_Illustrates the social recognition Stephen's success has brought to his parents._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_pair_of_blue_eyes_se/chapters/xxxvi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_pair_of_blue_eyes_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_pair_of_blue_eyes_se/chapters