David Copperfield · Chapter
II: I Observe explained
David observes the growing relationship between his mother and Mr.
What happens
David observes the growing relationship between his mother and Mr. Murdstone, feeling a child's instinctive jealousy. He accompanies Mr. Murdstone on a ride to meet his friends Quinion and another, where he is referred to as 'Brooks of Sheffield.' David questions Peggotty about marriage, and later overhears a tense conversation between his mother and Peggotty regarding Mr. Murdstone's attentions, leading to an emotional reconciliation. Mr. Murdstone visits the house and asks for a geranium blossom, and David notices a shift in the household dynamics.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
Mr. Murdstone's courtship of David's mother is observed through David's childish perspective, highlighting themes of remarriage and jealousy.
Orphanhood and Self-Formation
David's growing awareness of his mother's potential remarriage foreshadows his eventual orphanhood and the shaping of his identity.
Domesticity and the Ideal Home
The changing dynamics in the Copperfield household, with Peggotty's reduced presence and the intrusion of Mr. Murdstone, disrupt the domestic harmony.
Characters to notice
- David Copperfield
Narrates his observations of Mr. Murdstone's courtship of his mother, feeling jealousy and confusion.
- Clara Peggotty
Shows disapproval of Mr. Murdstone's attentions, argues with David's mother, and comforts David.
- Clara Copperfield
Defends her interactions with Mr. Murdstone to Peggotty, expresses affection for David.
- Mr. Murdstone
Courts David's mother, takes David for a ride, and is described with black whiskers and a shallow black eye.
- Mr. Quinion
Friend of Mr. Murdstone who calls David 'Mrs. Copperfield's encumbrance' and refers to him as 'Brooks of Sheffield.'
Key passages
“I could observe, in little pieces, as it were; but as to making a net of a number of these pieces, and catching anybody in it, that was, as yet, beyond me.”
David could notice small details but was too young to connect them into a full understanding of the situation.
Reflects David's limited comprehension of the courtship between his mother and Mr. Murdstone.
“He said he would never, never part with it any more; and I thought he must be quite a fool not to know that it would fall to pieces in a day or two.”
David thinks Mr. Murdstone is foolish for vowing to keep the geranium blossom forever, knowing it will wilt quickly.
Highlights David's childish naivety and his suspicion of Mr. Murdstone's romantic gestures.