Lolly Willowes · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Lolly Willowes by Sylvia Townsend Warner.
Chapter 1
I
The chapter introduces Laura Willowes, who after her father's death moves to London to live with her brother Henry and his family, becoming known as 'Aunt Lolly.' It explores her transition from a free country life at Lady Place to a constrained urban existence, her relationships with family members, and her early indifference to marriage, shaped by her close bond with her father and her upbringing.
Chapter 2
II
Laura settles into life at Great Mop, finding comfort in her lodgings and a growing friendship with Mrs. Leak, who shares her love for homemade wines and distillations. Through Mrs. Leak's stories, Laura learns about the Misses Larpent and Lazzard Court. The chapter also flashes back to Laura's earlier life in London, where she experienced an autumnal disquiet and secret expeditions, and culminates in her decisive announcement to Henry that she intends to move to Great Mop, despite his strong opposition.
Chapter 3
III
Laura reflects on her lifelong vocation as a witch, realizing that her solitary walks, herb-gathering, and distillations were early signs of her true nature. She feels that Satan has been hunting her since her arrival at Great Mop, drawing ever closer. Titus visits to borrow milk, and Laura later delivers a passionate speech to the Devil about the dull lives of women and how witchcraft offers them a sense of power and reality. At the Sabbath, Laura feels socially awkward, but finds a moment of ecstatic connection while dancing with Emily.