Dombey and Son · Chapter
Paul Grows More and More Old-Fashioned, and Goes Home for the Holidays explained
As the Midsummer vacation approaches, Paul Dombey becomes increasingly anxious to be liked by everyone at Dr.
What happens
As the Midsummer vacation approaches, Paul Dombey becomes increasingly anxious to be liked by everyone at Dr. Blimber's school. Despite the official analysis that declares him 'old-fashioned' and singular, Paul wins the affection of his peers and teachers through his gentle, conciliatory nature. He enjoys special privileges, including access to Mr. Feeder's room, where he observes the eccentricities of Mr. Feeder and Mr. Toots. Paul receives an invitation to a party, and the chapter contrasts his eager anticipation of the holidays with the resigned attitudes of other boys like Tozer and Briggs, who dread their home lives.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Childhood
Paul's innocent desire to be liked by everyone and his old-fashioned nature highlight the fragility and uniqueness of childhood.
Family and Neglect
The contrast between Paul's anticipation of holidays and the dread of Tozer and Briggs underscores the neglect and pressure children face from their families.
Characters to notice
- Paul Dombey
Paul is described as 'old-fashioned' and singular, but he strives to be liked by everyone at school, showing a deep need for affection and connection.
- Cornelia Blimber
Cornelia reads Paul's analysis aloud and continues to 'bring him on' vigorously in his studies.
- Mr. Toots
Toots is Paul's devoted friend and patron, who gives Mr. Feeder a snuff jar and plans a life of holidays after his 'last half' at school.
- Mr. Feeder
Mr. Feeder is a teacher who shares a snug room with Paul and Toots, indulging in snuff and planning various pursuits like learning the flute and fishing.
- Tozer
Tozer dreads going home due to a terrible uncle who subjects him to examinations and classical allusions.
- Briggs
Briggs is another student who fears the holidays because his father never leaves him alone, leading to severe mental trials.
Key passages
“It may be generally observed of Dombey, that his abilities and inclinations are good, and that he has made as much progress as under the circumstances could have been expected. But it is to be lamented of this young gentleman that he is singular (what is usually termed old-fashioned) in his character and conduct.”
Paul is academically adequate but socially peculiar, being 'old-fashioned' in his behavior.
This is the official analysis read by Miss Blimber, defining Paul's character in the chapter.
“Not so fond as I am of Florence, of course; that could never be. You couldn't expect that, could you, Ma'am?”
Paul explains that his love for Florence surpasses his affection for anyone else at school.
Paul's frank admission reveals his deep bond with his sister.
“The young gentlemen oozed away, semiannually, to their own homes; but they never broke up. They would have scorned the action.”
The students left for holidays quietly and without excitement, as breaking up would be undignified.
This describes the restrained atmosphere at Dr. Blimber's school.