# Isabel at Hereford explained — Cousin Henry

> Chapter companion for Cousin Henry by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Isabel returns to her father's home in Hereford, where she is received coldly by her stepmother and siblings. She refuses to accept any money from Cousin Henry, despite her father's insistence that the £4,000 legacy is rightfully hers. Isabel is determined to live in poverty rather than take a shilling from him, believing he is guilty of some wicked deed regarding the will. Her stepmother views her refusal as insanity, and the household is tense. Isabel also resolves not to marry Mr. Owen, though he is expected to propose upon his return from the Continent.

## Themes in this chapter

### Pride and Self-Sacrifice

Isabel's refusal to accept Cousin Henry's money, even at the cost of poverty, demonstrates her pride and willingness to sacrifice comfort for principle.

### Class and Social Hierarchy

Isabel's high-mindedness and sense of superiority clash with her stepmother's lower social standing and the family's financial struggles.

### Justice and Injustice

Isabel believes Cousin Henry has committed a wicked deed regarding the will, and she is determined to seek justice by refusing any benefit from him.

## Character check-ins

### Isabel Brodrick

Returns to Hereford as an interloper, refuses Cousin Henry's money, and is determined to live in poverty rather than accept his bounty.

### Mr. Brodrick

Isabel's father, an attorney who is frustrated by her obstinacy regarding the legacy and tries to convince her to accept the money.

### Mrs. Brodrick

Isabel's stepmother, who views Isabel's refusal of the legacy as insanity and is hostile toward her.

### Cousin Henry

The new heir of Llanfeare, whose offer of money and invitation to live at Llanfeare Isabel rejects; she suspects him of wicked deeds.

### Mr. Apjohn

The family solicitor who corresponds with Mr. Brodrick about the legacy and attempts to arrange payment without Isabel's acknowledgment.

### Mr. Owen

Isabel's suitor, currently on holiday in Europe; Mrs. Brodrick hopes he will marry Isabel and relieve the family of her burden.

## Key lines

> Isabel had not been many hours at home at Hereford before, as was natural, her father discussed with her the affairs of the property and her own peculiar interest in the will which had at last been accepted.

Soon after arriving home, Isabel's father talks to her about the property and the will that has been accepted.

_Sets up the central conflict of the chapter regarding the legacy._

> It has to be acknowledged that Isabel was received somewhat as an interloper in the house.

Isabel is treated like an unwanted outsider in her own home.

_Highlights Isabel's uncomfortable position in the family._

> Though she might have to die in the streets, she would take no bread from her Cousin Henry's hand.

Isabel would rather starve than accept any help from Cousin Henry.

_Emphasizes her fierce determination and pride._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cousin_henry_se/chapters/xi-isabel-at-hereford
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cousin_henry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cousin_henry_se/chapters