Democracy · Chapter
VIII explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Lee continues to navigate Washington society, observing the political machinations around her. She reflects on the government's lack of thought compared to Sybil's gowns, yet finds a 'healthy ocean current of honest purpose' beneath the surface. Ratcliffe's influence grows as he becomes indispensable to the President, taking over business and even editing the Inaugural Address. Mr. Gore, disappointed in his diplomatic hopes, bids farewell and criticizes the political system. Baron Jacobi openly mocks Ratcliffe's appointment, leading to tension. Mrs. Baker visits, disconcerting Mrs. Lee, and mentions Carrington.
Themes in this chapter
Corruption in Democracy
Ratcliffe's manipulation of the President and the spoils system (e.g., buying off an Indiana friend with the Spanish mission) illustrate systemic corruption.
The Machinery of Government
Detailed depiction of Ratcliffe taking over the President's work, handling visitors, and editing the Inaugural Address shows the inner workings of government.
Disillusionment with American Life
Mrs. Lee's loss of distinction between right and wrong, and Mr. Gore's bitter critique of politicians, reflect growing disillusionment.
Characters to notice
- Madeleine Lee
Reflects on the government's lack of thought, reconciles herself to Ratcliffe's morals, and hosts various visitors including Mr. Gore, Baron Jacobi, and Mrs. Baker.
- The Honourable Silas P. Ratcliffe
Becomes Secretary of the Treasury, quickly establishes authority over the President, handles business efficiently, and is mocked by Baron Jacobi.
- Mr. Nathan Gore
Bids farewell to Mrs. Lee, disappointed about losing the Spanish mission, criticizes politicians and the President's objections to his overcoat and hair.
- Old Baron Jacobi
Openly mocks Ratcliffe's appointment in Mrs. Lee's parlour, leading to a tense altercation.
- Mrs. Sam Baker
Visits Mrs. Lee uninvited, discusses Carrington, and shows a lack of understanding of art.
- Mr. Carrington
Mentioned by Mrs. Baker as 'dear Mr. Carrington' and 'a delicious man.'
Key passages
“To her the government seemed to have less thought in it than one of Sybil’s gowns, for if they, like the government, were monstrously costly, they were at least adapted to their purpose, the parts fitted together, and they were neither awkward nor unwieldy.”
Mrs. Lee thinks the government is less thoughtfully designed than Sybil's dress, which, though expensive, is functional and well-constructed.
Reflects Mrs. Lee's disillusionment with the government's inefficiency.
“I have got so far as to lose the distinction between right and wrong. Isn’t that the first step in politics?”
Mrs. Lee admits she can no longer tell right from wrong, suggesting that moral confusion is a prerequisite for political involvement.
Highlights the theme of moral ambiguity in politics.
“The ocean of history is foul with the carcases of such statesmen, dead and forgotten except when some historian fishes one of them up to gibbet it.”
Mr. Gore says history is full of forgotten politicians, only remembered when historians expose their failures.
Expresses Gore's bitterness and critique of political legacy.