David Copperfield · Chapter
Little Em'ly explained
David and Steerforth visit Mr.
What happens
David and Steerforth visit Mr. Peggotty's boat-home, where Steerforth charms the entire household, especially little Em'ly. Mr. Peggotty shares the story of Ham's love for Em'ly and her refusal, while Steerforth's captivating manner begins to draw Em'ly's attention. The chapter ends with Steerforth making a cold remark about Ham, unsettling David.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
David's unwavering admiration for Steerforth contrasts with Steerforth's manipulative charm, highlighting the theme of misplaced loyalty.
Love and Marriage
Ham's unrequited love for Em'ly and Mr. Peggotty's hopes for her marriage set up future romantic tensions.
Cruelty and Abuse of Power
Steerforth's cold remark about Ham being 'chuckle-headed' hints at his exploitative nature and disregard for the feelings of those he charms.
Characters to notice
- David Copperfield
Narrator and observer, reflects on his childhood memories and feels devoted to Steerforth.
- James Steerforth
Charms the Peggotty household with his easy manner and storytelling, but later reveals a cold, dismissive attitude toward Ham.
- Little Em'ly
Shy and bashful at first, she becomes animated under Steerforth's attention, her eyes fixed on him during his shipwreck story.
- Mr. Peggotty
Proudly speaks of his love for Em'ly and recounts Ham's honorable but unrequited love for her.
- Ham Peggotty
Sits beside Em'ly, grins happily as Mr. Peggotty tells of his love for her, and is described as bashful and honorable.
- Clara Peggotty
Hosts David and Steerforth, quickly adores Steerforth for his charm and kindness to David.
Key passages
“A most engaging little Beauty!”
Steerforth calls Em'ly a charming and attractive young girl.
Shows Steerforth's superficial admiration for Em'ly's beauty.
“That's rather a chuckle-headed fellow for the girl; isn't he?”
Steerforth dismissively suggests that Ham is too dull for Em'ly.
Reveals Steerforth's condescension and hidden contempt for the working class.
“I could go down quieter for thinking 'There's a man ashore there, iron-true to my little Em'ly, God bless her, and no wrong can touch my Em'ly while so be as that man lives.'”
Mr. Peggotty says he could die peacefully knowing Ham will protect Em'ly.
Highlights Mr. Peggotty's deep trust in Ham's loyalty and love for Em'ly.