Basil · Chapter
Chapter VII explained
Basil is summoned to Margaret's deathbed, where she lies in a feverish delirium.
What happens
Basil is summoned to Margaret's deathbed, where she lies in a feverish delirium. Despite her betrayal, he goes to her, hoping to bring her peace in her final moments. The doctor warns of Mannion's dangerous monomania, and Basil, moved by compassion and a sense of duty, decides to attend to Margaret, setting aside his own grievances.
Themes in this chapter
Guilt and Redemption
Basil seeks redemption by attending Margaret's deathbed despite her betrayal, hoping to bring her peace.
Madness and Illness
Margaret's fever-induced delirium and Mannion's monomania highlight the theme of mental instability.
Forbidden Love and Marriage
Margaret's ravings about undoing their marriage reflect the theme of a union that was doomed from the start.
Characters to notice
- Basil
Overcomes his personal anguish to attend Margaret's deathbed, seeking to soothe her last moments.
- Margaret Sherwin
In a feverish delirium, she calls for Basil and speaks of undoing their marriage, revealing her guilt and confusion.
- Robert Mannion
Mentioned as a dangerous monomaniac; his presence worsens Margaret's condition.
- Ralph
Accompanies Basil to the hospital and later leaves for the country, showing concern for Basil's safety.
- Mr. Bernard
The doctor who attends Margaret, showing compassion and discretion regarding the family's secrets.
Key passages
“I have gone to soothe her last moments.”
I have left to comfort her in her final hours.
Basil's note to Ralph explaining his departure.
“The sole resource for her which human skill and human pity could now suggest, embraced the sole chance that she might still be recovered for repentance, before she was resigned to death.”
The only hope left was that she might repent before dying.
Basil's reflection on Margaret's spiritual state.