Cakes and Ale · Chapter
VI explained
The narrator resolves to go out with the Driffields despite his uncle's likely disapproval.
What happens
The narrator resolves to go out with the Driffields despite his uncle's likely disapproval. When his uncle walks with him, Ted Driffield boldly approaches and asks permission for the narrator to join him on a ride to make brass rubbings. The uncle, distracted by the offer to pay for materials, inadvertently allows the outing.
Themes in this chapter
Freedom vs. Convention
The narrator's willingness to defy his uncle's authority to pursue his own interests reflects the tension between youthful freedom and societal expectations.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Determined to go with the Driffields, even willing to lie about permission; seizes the opportunity when his uncle is distracted.
- Edward Driffield
Boldly approaches the vicar to request the narrator's company, using the pretext of brass rubbing.
- Old Mr. Driffield
Mentioned as Ted's father, a former bailiff for Miss Wolfe.
- The Driffields
The narrator is eager to spend time with them, indicating a growing attachment.
Key passages
“I had quite made up my mind that I was going out with the Driffields next morning, but knew that it was no good asking my uncle if I might.”
I was determined to go with the Driffields the next day, even though I knew my uncle would refuse if I asked.
Shows the narrator's resolve and awareness of his uncle's disapproval.
“My uncle had not a consecutive mind and the suggestion that Ted Driffield should pay for my paper and wax offended him so much that he quite forgot his intention to forbid me to go at all.”
My uncle's mind was easily distracted, and the idea that Ted would pay for my supplies so offended him that he forgot to forbid the outing.
Illustrates the uncle's character and how the narrator gets his way.