Effects in the Bank explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Hypocrisy and Self-Deception

  Mrs. Sparsit's self-image as a genteel 'Bank Fairy' contrasts with the townspeople's view of her as a 'Bank Dragon,' and Bitzer's boast of thrift ignores the systemic advantages he enjoys.

• Social Class and Inequality

  The conversation between Mrs. Sparsit and Bitzer reinforces class divisions, with the working poor blamed for their own poverty while the wealthy justify their position.

Characters to notice

• Mrs. Sparsit

  Presides over the Bank after hours, sees herself as a 'Bank Fairy' and guardian of the premises, and engages in conversation with Bitzer and the stranger.

• Bitzer

  Light porter at the Bank, reports on the 'bad lot' of workers and criticizes Tom Gradgrind Junior's behavior, while boasting of his own thrift.

• James Harthouse

  A stranger who arrives with a letter from Mr. Gradgrind, inquires about Mr. Bounderby and his wife, and displays a languid, gallant manner.

• Josiah Bounderby

  Mentioned as Mrs. Sparsit's patron and the banker; his residence and marriage to Louisa are discussed.

• Tom Gradgrind Junior

  Discussed by Bitzer as a dissipated, extravagant idler who is not worth his salt and is protected by a friend and relation at court.

• Louisa Gradgrind

  Mentioned as Mr. Bounderby's wife; Harthouse is surprised to learn she is young, not the grim, stony maturity he expected.

Key passages

• “So does the eye of Heaven itself become an evil eye, when incapable or sordid hands are interposed between it and the things it looks upon to bless.”

  Even the sun's light can seem harmful when corrupt or incompetent people stand between it and what it should nourish.

  Narrator's commentary on the harsh effects of industrialization in Coketown.

• “What one person can do, another can do.”

  If I can succeed through hard work and thrift, anyone can.

  Bitzer's self-righteous assertion, typical of the capitalist myth of self-made success.