Middlemarch · Chapter
XLV explained
Lydgate, despite growing professional hostility and gossip in Middlemarch, remains focused on his medical ambitions.
What happens
Lydgate, despite growing professional hostility and gossip in Middlemarch, remains focused on his medical ambitions. He discusses his work and the challenges of innovation with Farebrother, who warns him to avoid financial entanglement with Bulstrode. At home, Lydgate shares his admiration for Vesalius with Rosamond, who is disturbed by the gruesome methods of anatomical study. Meanwhile, Lydgate's successful treatment of a misdiagnosed tumor case fuels both his reputation and the resentment of his peers.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Frustration
Lydgate's dedication to medical progress is met with professional jealousy and public misunderstanding, illustrating the tension between ambition and societal resistance.
Community and Gossip
The spread of rumors about Lydgate's methods, the tumor case, and his association with Bulstrode demonstrates the power of gossip in shaping reputations in Middlemarch.
Selfishness and Moral Compromise
Farebrother's warning to Lydgate about financial ties to Bulstrode hints at the moral compromises that may arise from pragmatic alliances.
Characters to notice
- Tertius Lydgate
Discusses his medical ambitions and the hostility he faces with Farebrother; shares his admiration for Vesalius with Rosamond; successfully treats a misdiagnosed tumor case.
- Rosamond Vincy
Plays the piano for Lydgate and expresses disgust at Vesalius's methods; shows concern about Lydgate's enemies.
- Camden Farebrother
Advises Lydgate to keep his distance from Bulstrode and avoid financial trouble; warns him about town gossip.
- Nicholas Bulstrode
Mentioned as a figure Lydgate should avoid close ties with; associated with the hospital board.
- Dorothea Brooke
Lydgate opens the subject of the Hospital to her; she is a sympathetic listener.
- Dr. Minchin
Misdiagnoses a case as tumor; is annoyed by Lydgate's correction and complains about Lydgate's lack of etiquette.
Key passages
“A man conscious of enthusiasm for worthy aims is sustained under petty hostilities by the memory of great workers who had to fight their way not without wounds, and who hover in his mind as patron saints, invisibly helping.”
A person passionate about noble goals finds strength in recalling past pioneers who overcame similar struggles, feeling their invisible support.
Reflects Lydgate's inner resilience as he faces professional opposition.
“The word charlatan once thrown on the air could not be let drop.”
Once the accusation of charlatanism was made, it could not be easily retracted or ignored.
Highlights how damaging labels stick in a close-knit community.
“It is not possible to square one's conduct to silly conclusions which nobody can foresee.”
One cannot tailor their actions to anticipate every foolish judgment that others might make.
Lydgate's frustration with the irrationality of public opinion.