David Copperfield · Chapter
A Retrospect explained
David Copperfield reflects on his adolescence, his infatuation with the eldest Miss Larkins, and the changes in himself and those around him, including Agnes Wickfield growing into a woman.
What happens
David Copperfield reflects on his adolescence, his infatuation with the eldest Miss Larkins, and the changes in himself and those around him, including Agnes Wickfield growing into a woman. He attends a ball, dances with Miss Larkins, and later learns she is to marry Mr. Chestle, ending his romantic fantasy.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
David's adolescent infatuation with Miss Larkins and her subsequent marriage to Mr. Chestle illustrate the transition from romantic fantasy to social reality.
Memory and Nostalgia
David reflects on his past self and the changes in those around him, emphasizing the passage of time and personal growth.
Characters to notice
- David Copperfield
Narrates his adolescent infatuation with the eldest Miss Larkins, his growth, and his reflections on the past.
- Agnes Wickfield
Appears as a young woman, copying music, and informs David of Miss Larkins's impending marriage.
- Miss Larkins
The eldest Miss Larkins, object of David's intense but short-lived romantic obsession, who dances with him and later marries Mr. Chestle.
- Mr. Larkins
Father of the eldest Miss Larkins, gruff and double-chinned, mentioned in David's fantasies and interactions.
- Mr. Chestle
A hop-grower who marries the eldest Miss Larkins, introduced to David at the ball.
Key passages
“I am lost in rapturous reflections; but I neither see her in the street, nor when I call.”
David is absorbed in blissful thoughts, but he cannot find Miss Larkins anywhere.
Highlights David's romantic obsession and disappointment.
“I picture myself taking courage to make a declaration to Miss Larkins. I picture Miss Larkins sinking her head upon my shoulder, and saying, 'Oh, Mr. Copperfield, can I believe my ears!'”
David imagines proposing to Miss Larkins and her accepting him.
Shows David's youthful fantasy and idealization of love.
“The eldest Miss Larkins is going to be married tomorrow. Someone you admire.”
Agnes tells David that Miss Larkins will marry the next day.
Reveals the end of David's romantic hopes.