# Dark Princess explained — Dark Princess

> Chapter companion for Dark Princess by W. E. B. Du Bois.

## What happens

Matthew Towns, a brilliant Black medical student, is expelled from a prestigious northern medical school due to racial prejudice. Disillusioned with America, he sails to Europe in despair, where he encounters a mysterious and captivating Indian princess in Berlin, setting the stage for a transformative journey.

## Themes in this chapter

### Racial Oppression and Exile

Matthew's expulsion from medical school exemplifies systemic racism, forcing him into self-imposed exile in Europe.

### Love and Transcendence

The meeting with Kautilya in Berlin hints at a cross-cultural romance that transcends racial and national boundaries.

## Character check-ins

### Matthew Towns

A gifted Black medical student who is expelled from school due to racism, leading him to flee to Europe.

### Kautilya

The Indian princess Matthew meets in Berlin, who becomes a pivotal figure in his life.

## Key lines

> Dark Princess

The chapter introduces the central figure of the Indian princess, whose presence looms over Matthew's journey.

_The title itself signals the importance of Kautilya as a symbol of mystery and transformation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dark_princess_se/chapters/dark-princess
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dark_princess_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dark_princess_se/chapters