Basil · Chapter
VI explained
Basil describes his domestic life in London after returning from the continent.
What happens
Basil describes his domestic life in London after returning from the continent. He lives with his father and sister Clara, who is weary of London society and longs for the country. Basil is writing a historical romance and spends most of his time reading and writing, while Clara manages his study and arranges his books. They enjoy secret rides into the countryside, visiting inns that remind them of home. Basil's routine is abruptly changed by a mere accident that alters the course of his life.
Themes in this chapter
Family Duty and Estrangement
Basil and Clara's relationship with their father is distant; he is absorbed in parliamentary duties, while Clara feels obligated to attend social events she dislikes.
The Ideal vs. The Real
Clara's ideal of country life contrasts with the reality of London society, and Basil's secret rides seek to recapture an idealized version of home.
Characters to notice
- Basil
Returns from the continent, engaged in writing a historical romance, and describes his daily habits of reading and writing.
- Clara
Basil's sister, weary of London gaieties, longs for the country, and takes charge of arranging Basil's study.
- Ralph
Mentioned as Basil's father, who is engaged in parliamentary duties and sees little of his children.
Key passages
“My father is engaged in his parliamentary duties. We see very little of him. Committees absorb his mornings—debates his evenings.”
Basil's father is busy with Parliament, so the family rarely sees him.
Highlights the father's absence and the family's estrangement.
“She is wearied of balls, operas, flower-shows, and all other London gaieties besides; and heartily longs to be driving about the green lanes again in her own little pony-chaise.”
Clara is tired of London's entertainments and wishes she were back in the countryside.
Shows Clara's discontent with her social obligations.
“These excursions we keep a secret, we like to enjoy them entirely by ourselves.”
Basil and Clara keep their countryside rides a secret because they enjoy them privately.
Illustrates their desire to escape the expectations of their social circle.