David Copperfield · Chapter
XVI: I Am a New Boy in More Senses Than One explained
David begins his new life at Doctor Strong's school in Canterbury, living with Mr.
What happens
David begins his new life at Doctor Strong's school in Canterbury, living with Mr. Wickfield and Agnes. He meets the gentle Doctor Strong and his young wife Annie, and observes the complex dynamics between Mr. Wickfield, the Doctor, and Jack Maldon. The chapter also introduces Uriah Heep's unsettling presence and sets up tensions around Jack Maldon's departure for India.
Themes in this chapter
Domesticity and the Ideal Home
The contrast between the warm, orderly home of Mr. Wickfield and the Doctor's household, with Annie's care for the Doctor, explores ideals of domestic harmony.
Friendship and Loyalty
David's growing bond with Agnes and the Doctor's loyalty to his wife's cousin Jack Maldon are central to the chapter's dynamics.
Cruelty and Abuse of Power
Mr. Wickfield's subtle manipulation and the Doctor's vulnerability to exploitation hint at power imbalances and potential abuse.
Characters to notice
- David Copperfield
David starts school at Doctor Strong's, feeling hopeful yet uneasy; he observes the relationships around him.
- Agnes Wickfield
Agnes welcomes David warmly, speaks of her mother's death, and shows her devotion to her father.
- Mr. Wickfield
Mr. Wickfield is weary and hints at dissatisfaction; he is involved in arranging Jack Maldon's departure.
- Uriah Heep
Uriah appears with his characteristic red head and lank hand, announcing Mr. Maldon's return; his watchful demeanor is noted.
- Doctor Strong
Doctor Strong is introduced as a gentle, absent-minded scholar; he is kind to David and devoted to his wife.
- Mrs. Strong
Annie Strong is kind to David, takes care of the Doctor, and seems constrained around Mr. Wickfield.
Key passages
“I sat there, sturdily conning my books, until dinnertime (we were out of school for good at three); and went down, hopeful of becoming a passable sort of boy yet.”
David studies hard until dinner, feeling optimistic about fitting in at school.
Shows David's determination to improve himself after his troubled past.
“He is the least suspicious of mankind; and whether that’s a merit, or whether it’s a blemish, it deserves consideration in all dealings with the Doctor, great or small.”
Mr. Wickfield warns David that Doctor Strong is too trusting, which could be either good or bad.
Foreshadows the Doctor's vulnerability to exploitation.
“Satan finds some mischief still, for idle hands to do.”
Doctor Strong quotes a proverb about idleness leading to trouble, referring to Jack Maldon.
Highlights the Doctor's concern about Maldon's character.