# XLV: Mr. Dick Fulfils My Aunt’s Predictions explained — David Copperfield

> Chapter companion for David Copperfield by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

David observes the ongoing tension in Doctor Strong's household, where Mrs. Markleham's constant pressure for amusement deepens the Doctor's insecurity about his marriage. Annie Strong, feeling the weight of suspicion regarding her relationship with Jack Maldon, finally confronts her husband, revealing that her mother's mercenary influence and the false appearances have caused the rift. She declares her true love and honor for the Doctor, clearing the misunderstanding and restoring their bond, while Mr. Dick's presence and Aunt Betsey's commentary underscore the resolution.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Annie's speech emphasizes that true marriage is based on suitability of mind and purpose, not on mercenary considerations or youthful infatuation.

### Debt and Financial Instability

Mrs. Markleham's constant pressure for gifts and entertainment for Annie creates a sense of being 'traded on' and undermines the marriage.

### The Role of Women

Annie is caught between her mother's expectations and her own sense of honor; her eventual defiance shows a woman asserting her own moral agency.

## Character check-ins

### David Copperfield

Narrator and observer of the confrontation between Doctor and Mrs. Strong; reveals his hidden knowledge at Annie's appeal.

### Doctor Strong

Shows gentle sorrow and insecurity about his marriage; ultimately reconciled with Annie after her declaration.

### Mrs. Strong

Annie Strong bravely confronts her husband, denies any improper feelings for Jack Maldon, and affirms her devotion to the Doctor.

### Mrs. Markleham

The 'Old Soldier' who constantly pushes for amusement and inadvertently deepens the Doctor's fears; her mercenary nature is exposed.

### Betsey Trotwood

Aunt Betsey observes with characteristic bluntness, muttering criticisms of Mrs. Markleham and triumphantly noting Mr. Dick's role.

### Mr. Dick

Supports Annie Strong during the confrontation and helps bring the truth to light, fulfilling Aunt Betsey's predictions.

## Key lines

> There can be no disparity in marriage like unsuitability of mind and purpose.

The greatest incompatibility in a marriage is a mismatch of intellect and goals.

_Annie's key insight about the foundation of a true marriage, which David reflects upon._

> I thought it would have become him better to have worked his own way on. I thought that if I had been he, I would have tried to do it, at the cost of almost any hardship.

I believed Jack Maldon should have earned his own living instead of relying on the Doctor's generosity, as I would have done in his place.

_Annie criticizes Jack Maldon's lack of initiative and integrity._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters/xlv-mr-dick-fulfils-my-aunt-s-predictions
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters