Melmoth the Wanderer · Chapter
XXVII explained
The Walberg family enjoys temporary prosperity under Guzman's patronage, but Ines Walberg harbors anxieties about their dependence and the future.
What happens
The Walberg family enjoys temporary prosperity under Guzman's patronage, but Ines Walberg harbors anxieties about their dependence and the future. After Guzman's death, a contested will threatens their security, leading to a legal battle that drains their resources. The family endures emotional turmoil as the case progresses, with Walberg's spirits fluctuating between hope and despair.
Themes in this chapter
Family and Dependence
The Walberg family's reliance on Guzman's favor and the fragility of their prosperity highlight themes of familial obligation and economic dependence.
Suffering and Oppression
The family's emotional and financial suffering during the legal battle, and Ines's silent anxieties, underscore the oppression of uncertainty and loss.
Temptation and Faith
Walberg's refusal to pray in both prosperity and adversity illustrates the temptation to neglect faith, while the old man's rebuke emphasizes the need for spiritual constancy.
Characters to notice
- Walberg
Father of the family, initially elated by Guzman's bounty, later devastated by the legal battle over the inheritance.
- Doña Clara
Wife of Walberg, anxious and prudent, she foresees potential disaster and urges independence for her children.
- Guzman
Rich brother of Ines, whose death triggers the inheritance crisis; his will is contested.
- Father Jose
The priest and Guzman's confessor, who acts as intermediary and later supports Walberg's legal claim.
Key passages
“The wife of Walberg, who was naturally of a cool sedate temper, and to whom misfortune had taught an anxious and jealous prévoyance, was not so intoxicated with the present prosperity of the family, as its young, or even its aged members.”
Ines Walberg, calm and cautious from past hardships, remained wary of their newfound wealth, unlike the rest of the family.
Highlights Ines's foresight and contrast with the family's optimism.
“Thus, O my God! prosperity and adversity alike furnish us with excuses for neglecting thee!”
The old man observes that both good times and bad times lead people to forget their religious duties.
Emphasizes the theme of faith and the human tendency to neglect spirituality.
“The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit—a broken heart he will not despise.”
Ines reflects that God values a contrite and humble heart over outward rituals.
Shows Ines's inner faith and resignation.