# My Aunt Makes Up Her Mind About Me explained — David Copperfield

> Chapter companion for David Copperfield by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

David's aunt Betsey Trotwood confronts Mr. and Miss Murdstone, who have come to reclaim him. After a heated exchange, Betsey decides to take David under her protection, rejecting the Murdstones' claims and sending them away. She then arranges for David to be properly clothed and begins planning his future.

## Themes in this chapter

### Orphanhood and Self-Formation

David's plea to his aunt and her decision to take him in highlight his struggle to shape his own identity after losing his mother.

### Cruelty and Abuse of Power

Mr. Murdstone's attempt to reclaim David and his harsh characterization of the boy exemplify the abuse of guardian authority.

### Domesticity and the Ideal Home

Betsey's home becomes a sanctuary for David, contrasting with the oppressive household of the Murdstones.

## Character check-ins

### David Copperfield

Present throughout the interview, trembling and pleading with his aunt not to be sent back to the Murdstones.

### Betsey Trotwood

Firmly defends David, confronts the Murdstones, and ultimately decides to adopt him.

### Mr. Murdstone

Arrives with his sister to take David back, but is rebuffed by Betsey.

### Miss Murdstone

Accompanies her brother, attempts to support his case, and is sharply answered by Betsey.

### Mr. Dick

Present during the interview; offers the practical suggestion to have David measured for clothes, which Betsey praises.

### Clara Copperfield

Referenced as David's late mother, described by Betsey as an 'unfortunate baby' and by Miss Murdstone as a 'mere child.'

## Key lines

> I answered no, and entreated her not to let me go. I said that neither Mr. nor Miss Murdstone had ever liked me, or had ever been kind to me.

David begged his aunt not to send him back, explaining that the Murdstones had never shown him any affection or kindness.

_David's emotional appeal to Betsey, emphasizing his mistreatment._

> Mr. Dick,” said my aunt, “what shall I do with this child?” Mr. Dick considered, hesitated, brightened, and rejoined, “Have him measured for a suit of clothes directly.”

Betsey asked Mr. Dick for advice, and he suggested getting David properly clothed.

_Mr. Dick's practical suggestion marks a turning point in David's adoption._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters/xiv-my-aunt-makes-up-her-mind-about-me
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters