Lorna Doone · Chapter
John Becomes Too Popular explained
John Ridd recounts his journey to Watchett to find the grave of Lorna's mother, the Countess of Dugal, but is hindered by his own fame as a wrestler.
What happens
John Ridd recounts his journey to Watchett to find the grave of Lorna's mother, the Countess of Dugal, but is hindered by his own fame as a wrestler. He reflects on Lorna's tragic family history and the Doones' motives for raising her. Meanwhile, Jeremy Stickles recovers from his wound, and John contemplates the dangers posed by Carver Doone.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
John and Lorna discuss the depth of their love, with Lorna questioning whether John would give up everything for her, and John affirming he would.
Social Class and Inequality
Lorna's noble birth and inheritance create tension with John's yeoman status, and the Doones' schemes revolve around her estate.
Family and Loyalty
Lorna mourns her parents' tragic fate, and John reflects on the Doones' manipulation of her lineage for their own gain.
Characters to notice
- John Ridd
Narrates his journey to Watchett and his reflections on Lorna's past.
- Lorna Doone
Listens to John's tale of her parents' fate, weeps, and expresses her love and fear of selfishness.
- Jeremy Stickles
Recovering from his wound; John reviles Sergeant Bloxham to encourage him.
- Carver Doone
Mentioned as a feared suitor for Lorna and a potential threat to John.
- Benita
Impressed upon John that Lorna's father was the Earl of Dugal.
Key passages
“No flower that I have ever seen, either in shifting of light and shade, or in the pearly morning, may vie with a fair young woman’s face when tender thought and quick emotion vary, enrich, and beautify it.”
John reflects that a young woman's face, when moved by emotion, surpasses any flower in beauty.
John's poetic admiration of Lorna's expression as she listens to his tale.
“I wanted to have my love on earth; and my dear wife in my own home; and children in good time, if God should please to send us any.”
John desires a tangible, earthly life with Lorna, including marriage and family, rather than a distant spiritual reunion.
John's practical and earthly view of love contrasts with Lorna's more spiritual perspective.
“But though the art is an honest one, surely they who excel therein have a right (like all the rest of mankind) to their own private life.”
John argues that even skilled wrestlers deserve privacy, despite his fame causing unwanted attention in Watchett.
John's frustration with his celebrity status interfering with his mission.