Barchester Towers · Chapter
The Beelzebub Colt explained
Eleanor Bold reveals her engagement to Mr.
What happens
Eleanor Bold reveals her engagement to Mr. Arabin to Miss Thorne. The next morning, she and Mr. Arabin have a private moment together, affirming their love. Mr. Harding visits Eleanor and tells her he has been offered the deanery, but he begins to think Mr. Arabin should be dean instead.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Courtship
Eleanor and Mr. Arabin's engagement is central, highlighting the joy and solemnity of their commitment.
Personal Integrity vs. Ambition
Mr. Harding's internal conflict about accepting the deanery versus supporting Mr. Arabin illustrates this theme.
Characters to notice
- Eleanor Bold
Confesses her engagement to Miss Thorne and later shares a tender moment with Mr. Arabin.
- Mr. Arabin
Affirms his love for Eleanor and accepts the trust of their engagement.
- Miss Thorne
Learns of Eleanor's engagement and congratulates her.
- Mr. Thorne
Discusses the Beelzebub colt with Mr. Arabin and later leaves to check on the horse.
- Mr. Harding
Visits Eleanor to share news of the deanery offer and begins to consider Mr. Arabin for the position.
Key passages
“When Miss Thorne left the dining-room, Eleanor had formed no intention of revealing to her what had occurred, but when she was seated beside her hostess on the sofa, the secret dropped from her almost unawares.”
Eleanor had not planned to tell Miss Thorne about her engagement, but the news slipped out naturally as they sat together.
Shows Eleanor's inability to hide her feelings.
“It is a great trust, said he, a very great trust.”
Mr. Arabin views marriage as a serious responsibility.
Highlights Mr. Arabin's solemn approach to their union.
“She had found the strong shield that should guard her from all wrongs, the trusty pilot that should henceforward guide her through the shoals and rocks.”
Eleanor feels that Mr. Arabin will protect and guide her through life's difficulties.
Metaphor for Eleanor's reliance on her future husband.