# Slope Versus Harding explained — Barchester Towers

> Chapter companion for Barchester Towers by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Mr. Slope meets with Mr. Harding to discuss the terms of the warden's appointment at Hiram's Hospital, imposing new duties and conditions that Mr. Harding ultimately rejects, leading Slope to report the refusal to the bishop and Mrs. Proudie, who then consider Mr. Quiverful as a replacement.

## Themes in this chapter

### Clerical Corruption and Patronage

Mr. Slope and Mrs. Proudie manipulate the appointment process for Hiram's Hospital, prioritizing political and personal gain over merit.

### Tradition vs. Reform

Mr. Harding represents the old, easy-going clerical tradition, while Mr. Slope embodies the new, demanding reformist approach.

### Personal Integrity vs. Ambition

Mr. Harding's refusal to accept conditions he disagrees with contrasts with Mr. Slope's ambitious maneuvering to secure the position for an ally.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Slope

Conducts the interview with Mr. Harding, imposing new conditions for the hospital appointment and reporting the refusal to the bishop.

### Mr. Harding

Listens to Mr. Slope's proposed duties, becomes angry, and ultimately declines the appointment under the proposed conditions.

### Dr. Proudie

Mentioned as the bishop who supports the new measures and is informed of Mr. Harding's refusal.

### Mrs. Proudie

Influences the bishop's decision, suggesting Mr. Quiverful as a more suitable candidate.

### Mr. Quiverful

Mentioned as a potential replacement for the hospital appointment.

## Key lines

> New men, Mr. Harding, are now needed and are now forthcoming in the church, as well as in other professions.

Mr. Slope asserts that the church requires a new generation of clergy who are active and reform-minded, unlike the old guard.

_Highlights the ideological clash between tradition and reform._

> I will take an early opportunity of seeing his lordship myself.

Mr. Harding insists on speaking directly to the bishop rather than negotiating through Mr. Slope.

_Shows Mr. Harding's resistance to Mr. Slope's authority and his desire for direct communication._

> I shall consult my friends in this matter, Mr. Slope; but I mean to be guilty of no subterfuge—you may tell the bishop that as I altogether disagree with his views about the hospital, I shall decline the situation if I find that any such conditions are attached to it as those you have suggested.

Mr. Harding states he will seek advice but clearly refuses the appointment if the proposed conditions are mandatory.

_Demonstrates Mr. Harding's principled stand and his rejection of the new terms._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barchester_towers_se/chapters/xii-slope-versus-harding
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barchester_towers_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barchester_towers_se/chapters