A Room With a View · Chapter
XX: The End of the Middle Ages explained
Lucy and George are reunited in the Pension Bertolini, reflecting on their past struggles and the role of others—especially Charlotte Bartlett—in bringing them together.
What happens
Lucy and George are reunited in the Pension Bertolini, reflecting on their past struggles and the role of others—especially Charlotte Bartlett—in bringing them together. They discuss letters from Freddy, the disapproval of the Honeychurches, and the possibility that Charlotte secretly hoped for their union. The chapter ends with them embracing, content in their love.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The chapter culminates in Lucy and George's marital bliss, exploring the fulfillment of their love despite societal and familial opposition.
Repression vs. Passion
Charlotte Bartlett is reinterpreted as possibly harboring hidden passion for Lucy's happiness, contrasting her outwardly repressive behavior.
Characters to notice
- Lucy Honeychurch
Now married to George, she reflects on the past and her feelings about Charlotte's possible hidden intentions.
- George Emerson
Husband to Lucy, he expresses gratitude and speculates that Charlotte Bartlett may have secretly hoped for their union.
- Charlotte Bartlett
Discussed at length; George suggests she may have unconsciously hoped for Lucy and George's happiness despite her surface opposition.
- Freddy Honeychurch
Mentioned in a letter; he disapproves of Lucy and George's marriage, calling it an elopement.
- Mr. Beebe
Lucy wishes he would forgive them, but believes he will never be interested in them again.
Key passages
“But I do believe that, far down in her heart, far below all speech and behaviour, she is glad.”
George suggests that Charlotte secretly feels joy about their union, despite her actions.
George speculates on Charlotte's hidden emotions.
“If we act the truth, the people who really love us are sure to come back to us in the long run.”
Lucy believes that honesty will eventually win back those who truly care.
Lucy expresses hope for reconciliation with her family.