Looking Backward · Chapter
Chapter XIII explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Leete explains international trade and emigration in the new world, using credit cards and indemnities. Edith Leete introduces Julian to the library of classic authors, and Julian reflects on the transformation of society while reading Dickens. Dr. Leete praises Dickens for his empathy toward the poor and his role in exposing social injustices.
Themes in this chapter
Economic System and Cooperation
Dr. Leete explains international trade balances, credit cards, and emigration indemnities, illustrating a cooperative global economic system.
Critique of Capitalism and Consumerism
Julian's reading of Dickens highlights the past misery and cruelty of the old social system, contrasting with the new utopian order.
Moral and Social Progress
Dr. Leete praises Dickens for turning minds toward social wrongs and the necessity of change, reflecting moral progress.
Characters to notice
- Julian West
Asks about emigration and travel, reads Dickens in the library, reflects on the transformation of society.
- Dr. Leete
Explains international trade, emigration indemnities, and credit card systems; later praises Dickens in the library.
- Edith Leete
Suggests dining at the Elephant, introduces Julian to the library of classic authors, and leaves him to read.
- Mrs. Leete
Present at the table but not directly involved in the conversation.
Key passages
“An American credit card is just as good in Europe as American gold used to be, and on precisely the same condition, namely, that it be exchanged into the currency of the country you are traveling in.”
An American credit card is accepted in Europe just like gold once was, as long as it is converted into local currency.
Dr. Leete explains the international credit system to Julian.
“She had introduced me to a circle of friends whom the century that had elapsed since last I communed with them had aged as little as it had myself.”
Edith introduced Julian to books by classic authors, who seemed as timeless as he felt after his long sleep.
Julian reflects on the enduring nature of literature.
“No man of his time did so much as he to turn men's minds to the wrong and wretchedness of the old order of things, and open their eyes to the necessity of the great change that was coming, although he himself did not clearly foresee it.”
Dr. Leete says Dickens did more than anyone to expose the injustices of the old society and prepare people for change, even if he didn't fully envision the new system.
Dr. Leete praises Dickens' social impact.