Decline and Fall · Chapter
Epilogue explained
In the epilogue, Paul Pennyfeather is in his third year of uneventful residence at Scone, preparing for ordination.
What happens
In the epilogue, Paul Pennyfeather is in his third year of uneventful residence at Scone, preparing for ordination. He is visited by Peter Pastmaster, now a young man drinking heavily, who reflects on their shared past at Llanabba, Margot's marriage to Metroland, and Paul's imprisonment. Their conversation underscores the distance between their worlds, and Paul returns to his quiet, scholarly life.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Disappearance
Paul has retreated into a quiet, static life and ordination, effectively disappearing from his former dynamic world, while Peter struggles with his own identity and the consequences of their shared past.
Futility of Ambition
Peter's aimless drinking and reflection on past events highlight the emptiness of their earlier ambitions and the futility of trying to change one's trajectory.
Characters to notice
- Paul Pennyfeather
Now in his third year at Scone, studying and preparing for ordination; he remains static and detached from his past.
- Peter Pastmaster
Now a young man drinking heavily, he visits Paul and reflects on their shared history at Llanabba and the events involving Margot.
- Stubbs
A fellow student at Scone who visits Paul for cocoa and discusses academic matters before leaving.
- Margot Beste-Chetwynde
Referenced as Margot Metroland, now married to Metroland; Peter mentions her current situation.
- Sir Alastair Digby-Vaine-Trumpington
Referenced as Alastair, Margot's young man, and part of the past events recalled by Peter.
- Sir Humphrey Maltravers
Mentioned by Peter in connection with Margot and the events surrounding Paul's imprisonment.
Key passages
“You’re dynamic, and I’m static.”
Paul describes their fundamental difference: Peter is active and changeable, while Paul is passive and unchanging.
This line encapsulates the central contrast between the two characters and their life paths.
“Fortune, a much-maligned lady.”
Paul once remarked that fortune is unfairly blamed for the twists of fate.
Peter recalls this phrase from their earlier meeting at the Ritz, highlighting the role of chance in their lives.