Agnes Grey · Chapter
First Lessons in the Art of Instruction explained
Agnes Grey begins her duties as governess at Wellwood House, encountering the Bloomfield children.
What happens
Agnes Grey begins her duties as governess at Wellwood House, encountering the Bloomfield children. She observes Master Tom Bloomfield's cruel behavior toward animals and his domineering attitude, while Mrs. Bloomfield presents a cold, forbidding demeanor and offers misleading praise of her children. Agnes struggles to connect with her pupils and feels the weight of her new position.
Themes in this chapter
Cruelty and Compassion
Tom Bloomfield's torture of birds and his father's approval highlight the theme of cruelty, while Agnes attempts to instill compassion.
The Plight of the Governess
Agnes's powerless position is evident as she is ignored by the children and constrained by Mrs. Bloomfield's cold authority.
Hypocrisy and Superficiality
Mrs. Bloomfield's praise of Tom as 'generous and noble-spirited' contrasts sharply with his actual cruel behavior.
Characters to notice
- Agnes Grey
Agnes begins her first day as governess, trying to manage the Bloomfield children and navigate Mrs. Bloomfield's coldness.
- Mr. Bloomfield
Tom Bloomfield, the seven-year-old son, is cruel to animals and domineering, contradicting his mother's praise.
- Mary Ann
Mary Ann, the elder daughter, is affected and attention-seeking, with a simper and a love for her doll.
- Mrs. Bloomfield
Mrs. Bloomfield is cold, grave, and forbidding, offering misleading praise of her children and cautioning Agnes not to mention their defects.
- Fanny
Fanny is a pretty, gentle child of nearly four, who has not yet begun lessons.
- Mr. Robson
Uncle Robson is mentioned as having laughed at Tom's cruelty to birds, encouraging his behavior.
Key passages
“I'll cut into him like smoke! Eeh! my word! but he shall sweat for it.”
Tom boasts that he will whip a pony mercilessly.
Tom's violent attitude toward animals is revealed early in the chapter.
“I still think it is, Tom; and perhaps your papa and mamma would think so too, if they thought much about it. However, I internally added, 'they may say what they please, but I am determined you shall do nothing of the kind, as long as I have power to prevent it.'”
Agnes resolves to stop Tom's cruelty despite his parents' indifference.
Agnes's inner determination contrasts with her outward powerlessness.