# Enthusiasm explained — David Copperfield

> Chapter companion for David Copperfield by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

David, determined to prove himself worthy of Dora, resolves to work hard and clear his own path through life. He visits Dr. Strong in Highgate, reflecting on his changed circumstances. Meanwhile, the Micawbers prepare to move to Canterbury, where Mr. Micawber has accepted a position as confidential clerk to Uriah Heep, much to David's surprise. Mrs. Micawber insists on her unwavering loyalty to her husband, and Mr. Micawber boasts of his future prospects in the law.

## Themes in this chapter

### Debt and Financial Instability

The Micawbers' ongoing pecuniary difficulties and Mr. Micawber's new employment with Heep underscore the theme of financial struggle.

### Friendship and Loyalty

David's determination to prove himself worthy of his aunt's kindness and Mrs. Micawber's steadfast loyalty to her husband highlight bonds of loyalty.

### Love and Marriage

David's resolve to work hard to win Dora and Mrs. Micawber's insistence on never deserting her husband reflect the theme of love and marital duty.

## Character check-ins

### David Copperfield

Resolves to work hard and win Dora; visits Dr. Strong in Highgate.

### Wilkins Micawber

Announces his new position as confidential clerk to Uriah Heep in Canterbury.

### Mrs. Micawber

Expresses unwavering loyalty to her husband and discusses his future prospects.

### Tommy Traddles

Present at the Micawbers' lodging, offering practical advice about the legal profession.

### Uriah Heep

Mentioned as the employer who has engaged Mr. Micawber as his confidential clerk.

### Rosa Dartle

Seen walking restlessly in Mrs. Steerforth's garden, described as a fierce thing wearing its heart out.

## Key lines

> What I had to do, was, to take my woodman’s axe in my hand, and clear my own way through the forest of difficulty, by cutting down the trees until I came to Dora.

David resolves to overcome all obstacles through hard work in order to win Dora.

_This metaphor illustrates David's newfound determination and practical approach to his romantic goal._

> I am a wife and mother, and I never will desert Mr. Micawber.

Mrs. Micawber declares her unwavering commitment to her husband despite family opposition.

_This statement emphasizes Mrs. Micawber's loyalty and her sense of marital duty._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters/xxxvi-enthusiasm
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters