# Chapter VII explained — Basil

> Chapter companion for Basil by Wilkie Collins.

## What happens

Basil, consumed by anticipation of reuniting with Margaret, waits near her aunt's house during a party. When Margaret and Mr. Mannion leave early, he follows them, but a street scuffle delays him. He tracks their cab to a secluded hotel, where he overhears a quarrel and discovers Margaret's betrayal. In a fit of rage, he attacks Mannion, nearly killing him, and then flees in a daze as Margaret escapes.

## Themes in this chapter

### Forbidden Love and Marriage

Basil's idealized love for Margaret clashes with the reality of her betrayal, highlighting the fragility of marital trust.

### Revenge and Obsession

Basil's obsessive pursuit of Margaret and his violent reaction to her betrayal demonstrate the destructive power of jealousy.

### Secrecy and Deception

Margaret and Mannion's clandestine meeting at a hotel underscores the theme of hidden truths and deceit.

## Character check-ins

### Basil

Overwhelmed by love and anticipation, then consumed by jealousy and rage upon discovering Margaret's betrayal.

### Margaret Sherwin

Leaves the party early with Mannion, leading Basil to uncover her infidelity.

### Robert Mannion

Accompanies Margaret to a hotel, provoking Basil's violent attack.

## Key lines

> I felt little impatience, and no sense of fatigue; for in less than two hours more I knew that I should see my wife again.

Basil is so eager to see Margaret that he feels no tiredness or restlessness.

_Highlights Basil's intense anticipation and love._

> The cry for mercy was on her lips, but the instant our eyes met, it died away in long, low, hysterical moanings.

Margaret's plea for forgiveness turns into sobs when she sees Basil's face.

_Shows Margaret's guilt and fear._

> I seemed to be speaking as the mere mouthpiece of some other voice.

Basil feels as if he is not in control of his own actions.

_Indicates his dissociation and the overwhelming nature of his emotions._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/basil_se/chapters/part-ii-vii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/basil_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/basil_se/chapters