# XXXII explained — Amaryllis at the Fair

> Chapter companion for Amaryllis at the Fair by Richard Jefferies.

## What happens

Amadis attempts to churn butter but fails due to his weak health, causing him disappointment. Mrs. Iden scolds the maid Luce for idling, then feeds the farmhands and local children with hearty food, which the narrator contrasts with the scientific, meager diets advocated by reformers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Money

The narrator satirizes middle-class reformers who prescribe meager scientific diets for the poor while enjoying rich food themselves.

### Gender Roles and Female Experience

Mrs. Iden manages the household and dairy with frantic energy, while Amaryllis adopts a maternal, reproachful tone toward Amadis.

### Family Conflict and Misunderstanding

Amadis's physical weakness causes him shame and disappointment, and Mrs. Iden's temper creates tension with the maid.

## Character check-ins

### Amadis Iden

Tries to churn butter but becomes exhausted and disappointed by his weakness.

### Mrs. Iden

Bustles about the farm, scolds Luce, and feeds the men and children with generous portions.

### Amaryllis Iden

Warns Amadis not to overexert himself and fetches him a glass of milk.

### Bill Nye

Sits waiting for Iden about the mowing, laughs at Amadis's effort, and suggests snail oil.

### Jearje

Has been churning for hours and hands the handle to Amadis.

### Luce

The maid, scolded by Mrs. Iden for idling and talking with the men.

## Key lines

> Convalescence is like walking in sacks; a short waddle and a fall.

Recovering from illness is awkward and frustrating, with small efforts leading to quick setbacks.

_Describes Amadis's disappointment after failing at the churn._

> Verily, man is made up of impatience.

Human beings are fundamentally impatient.

_Narrator's ironic comment on Jearje eating while churning, referencing the angel Gabriel in the Koran._

> A man who cannot live on bread is not fit to live.

Anyone who cannot survive on bread alone does not deserve to live.

_Satirical citation of Henry Ward Beecher to criticize harsh dietary advice for the poor._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/amaryllis_at_the_fair_se/chapters/xxxii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/amaryllis_at_the_fair_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/amaryllis_at_the_fair_se/chapters