Middlemarch · Chapter
XLIX explained
In the aftermath of Mr.
What happens
In the aftermath of Mr. Casaubon's death, Sir James Chettam and Mr. Brooke discuss the implications of Casaubon's secret codicil, which disinherits Dorothea if she marries Will Ladislaw. Sir James urges Mr. Brooke to send Ladislaw away to protect Dorothea's reputation, but Mr. Brooke resists, citing practical and political reasons. The conversation reveals tensions over Dorothea's future and the scandalous potential of the codicil.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Illusion
Casaubon's codicil reveals the illusion of a harmonious marriage, exposing his jealousy and control over Dorothea even after death.
Selfishness and Moral Compromise
Mr. Brooke prioritizes his political ambitions over Dorothea's well-being, while Sir James's protective instincts clash with practical constraints.
Community and Gossip
The fear of scandal and public perception drives the conversation, as both men worry about how the codicil will be interpreted by society.
Characters to notice
- Sir James Chettam
Expresses indignation and disgust over Casaubon's codicil, urging Mr. Brooke to send Ladislaw away to protect Dorothea's dignity.
- Mr. Brooke
Resists Sir James's demands, preferring to avoid immediate action and keep Ladislaw for political reasons.
- Dorothea Brooke
Mentioned as the executrix of Casaubon's will, still confined to her room after the funeral, and the subject of the codicil's restrictions.
- Will Ladislaw
Discussed as the potential beneficiary of Dorothea's affection; Sir James suspects him of impropriety and wants him sent away.
- Edward Casaubon
Recently deceased; his codicil is criticized as a mean and ungentlemanly action that compromises Dorothea.
- Celia Brooke
Mentioned as a comfort for Dorothea; Sir James suggests Dorothea stay with Celia and her baby at Freshitt.
Key passages
“I wish to God we could hinder Dorothea from knowing this”
Sir James Chettam expresses a strong desire to keep the codicil secret from Dorothea to spare her distress.
Reveals Sir James's protective attitude and the perceived harm of the codicil's revelation.
“I say that there never was a meaner, more ungentlemanly action than this—a codicil of this sort to a will”
Sir James condemns Casaubon's codicil as a base and dishonorable act.
Highlights the moral outrage felt by Dorothea's family and the insult to her character.
“I couldn't send him out of the country if he didn't choose to go—didn't choose, you know.”
Mr. Brooke argues that he cannot forcibly remove Ladislaw against his will.
Shows Mr. Brooke's reluctance to act decisively and his tendency to avoid confrontation.