Decline and Fall · Chapter
X: Post Mortem explained
After the sports day, Dr.
What happens
After the sports day, Dr. Fagan, his daughters, Paul, and Grimes discuss the day's disappointments, including Mr. Prendergast's argument with Mr. Cholmondley about rood-screens and Lady Circumference's inappropriate speech. Later, Paul and Grimes reflect on the event at the inn, where Paul reveals his growing interest in Margot Beste-Chetwynde, and Grimes teases him about being in love.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Snobbery
Lady Circumference's speech and Dr. Fagan's reactions illustrate class distinctions and snobbery among the attendees.
Hypocrisy and Corruption
The argument over rood-screens masks underlying racial prejudice, and Grimes' manipulation of the band members shows moral corruption.
Colonialism and Racism
The use of racial slurs and the conflict with Mr. Cholmondley reveal ingrained racism and colonial attitudes.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Fagan
Expresses disappointment in the sports day and criticizes Lady Circumference's speech.
- Paul Pennyfeather
Shows a subdued mood after the sports day and reveals his curiosity about Margot Beste-Chetwynde.
- Captain Grimes
Tries to cheer Paul up and teases him about being in love with Margot.
- Mr. Prendergast
Becomes agitated after his argument with Mr. Cholmondley, then recovers and canes twenty-three boys.
- Flossie Fagan
Mentions Mr. Cholmondley's invitation to Reigate and her refusal.
- Dingy
Comments on the day's events and criticizes Mr. Cholmondley.
Key passages
“I didn’t like Lady Circumference’s speech... I thought her reference to the Five Furlong race positively brutal.”
Flossie criticizes Lady Circumference's speech, finding her comment about the race harsh.
Highlights social insensitivity and class tensions.
“I say, Grimes, what d’you suppose the relationship is between Mrs. Beste-Chetwynde and that nigger?”
Paul asks Grimes about the nature of Margot's relationship with Mr. Cholmondley.
Reveals Paul's curiosity and the racial prejudices of the time.
“Old boy, you’re in love.”
Grimes teases Paul, claiming he is in love with Margot.
Foreshadows Paul's romantic interest in Margot.