Barchester Towers · Chapter
The Dean and Chapter Take Counsel explained
After Mr.
What happens
After Mr. Slope's provocative sermon, the clergy of Barchester, led by Archdeacon Grantly, convene to discuss how to prevent him from preaching again in the cathedral. Mr. Harding suggests toleration, but the archdeacon insists on action, arguing that Slope deliberately insulted the established clergy. Meanwhile, a small party of laypeople, especially ladies, begin to support Slope's new ideas, and a few needy clergymen like Mr. Quiverful court his favor. Dr. and Mrs. Proudie return to London, leaving Slope to continue his machinations.
Themes in this chapter
Ecclesiastical Power and Politics
The chapter meeting reveals the political maneuvering among clergy to control who preaches in the cathedral, highlighting the struggle between the bishop's party and the chapter.
Hypocrisy and Moral Ambiguity
Mr. Slope's supporters, especially ladies, embrace his new ideas for excitement rather than conviction, while needy clergy like Mr. Quiverful court him for material gain, exposing self-interest masked as religious zeal.
Characters to notice
- Archdeacon Grantly
Leads the chapter meeting, vehemently opposes Mr. Slope, and insists on barring him from the cathedral pulpit.
- Mr. Harding
Suggests tolerating Mr. Slope unless he preaches false doctrine, but his gentle plea is overruled; he privately fears further disruption to his life.
- Mr. Slope
Remains in Barchester after the Proudies' departure, actively flattering, prying, and ingratiating himself with the poor and a few clergy.
- Mr. Quiverful
Among the few clergy who call on Mr. Slope after the sermon, driven by his large family and meager income.
- Dr. Proudie
Returns to London with his wife to avoid confrontation with the dean and chapter over the sermon.
Key passages
“Who can wonder that a gentleman with fourteen living children and a bare income of £400 a year should look after the loaves and fishes, even when they are under the thumb of a Mr. Slope?”
It is unsurprising that a man with fourteen children and only £400 a year would seek material benefits, even from someone as unpleasant as Mr. Slope.
Highlights Mr. Quiverful's desperate financial situation driving him to associate with Slope.
“It is not because his opinion on church matters may be different from ours—with that one would not quarrel. It is because he has purposely insulted us.”
The objection is not to Mr. Slope's differing views, but to his deliberate insult to the established clergy.
Archdeacon Grantly articulates the chapter's grievance, framing the conflict as personal rather than doctrinal.