David Copperfield · Chapter
XIX: I Look About Me, and Make a Discovery explained
David Copperfield, now a young man, embarks on a journey to explore the world and gain independence, as encouraged by his aunt Betsey Trotwood.
What happens
David Copperfield, now a young man, embarks on a journey to explore the world and gain independence, as encouraged by his aunt Betsey Trotwood. He visits Canterbury to say goodbye to Agnes Wickfield and Mr. Wickfield, and then travels to London, where he experiences the theater and begins to notice troubling dynamics in the Strong household, particularly Mr. Wickfield's unease with the intimacy between Agnes and Mrs. Strong, and the implications of Jack Maldon's letters.
Themes in this chapter
Orphanhood and Self-Formation
David embarks on a journey of self-discovery and independence, guided by his aunt's advice to develop a firm character.
Friendship and Loyalty
David's deep bond with Agnes is highlighted as he confides in her and values her guidance.
Memory and Nostalgia
David reflects on his past, including his school days at Salem House, and the theater evokes memories of his earlier life.
Characters to notice
- David Copperfield
David is sent on a solo trip by his aunt to gain self-reliance, visits Canterbury and London, and becomes aware of complex relationships in the Strong household.
- Agnes Wickfield
Agnes warmly welcomes David in Canterbury, and they share a close conversation about his future and her influence on him.
- Betsey Trotwood
Aunt Betsey arranges David's journey, advising him to be firm and self-reliant, and sends him off with money and encouragement.
- Mr. Wickfield
Mr. Wickfield is present at the Strongs' and appears deeply troubled, watching Mrs. Strong and Agnes with unease, and remaining silent during discussions about Jack Maldon.
- Mrs. Strong
Annie Strong is visibly distressed when her mother reads Jack Maldon's letter, and David begins to mistrust her innocence.
- Mr. Dick
Mr. Dick is briefly mentioned as being kept by Aunt Betsey to take care of her, and he expresses dedication to his Memorial.
Key passages
“must not be allowed to go back, and we must endeavour to make some more suitable and fortunate provision for him in this country.”
We cannot let him return, and we should try to find a better and more fortunate arrangement for him here.
Doctor Strong insists on helping Jack Maldon by finding him a position in England rather than letting him return from abroad.
“I was still painfully conscious of my youth, for nobody stood in any awe of me at all: the chambermaid being utterly indifferent to my opinions on any subject, and the waiter being familiar with me, and offering advice to my inexperience.”
I felt acutely aware of my young age, as no one respected me: the chambermaid ignored my opinions, and the waiter treated me familiarly, giving advice to my inexperience.
David feels self-conscious about his youth and lack of authority when staying at the Golden Cross hotel.
“To have all those noble Romans alive before me, and walking in and out for my entertainment, instead of being the stern taskmasters they had been at school, was a most novel and delightful effect.”
Seeing the noble Romans come to life on stage, moving about for my amusement, rather than being the harsh teachers they were at school, was a wonderfully new and enjoyable experience.
David is enchanted by the theatrical performance of Julius Caesar, contrasting it with his school memories.