Middlemarch · Chapter
XXXIII explained
Mary Garth keeps vigil over the dying Peter Featherstone during the night.
What happens
Mary Garth keeps vigil over the dying Peter Featherstone during the night. He attempts to bribe her into helping him burn one of his two wills and take money, but she refuses, fearing it would compromise her integrity. Featherstone grows increasingly desperate and angry, but Mary remains resolute. Eventually, Featherstone dies, still clutching his keys and money.
Themes in this chapter
Money and Economic Pressure
Featherstone's attempt to bribe Mary with money and the tension over his wills highlight the economic anxieties and power struggles surrounding inheritance.
Selfishness and Moral Compromise
Featherstone's selfish desire to control his legacy contrasts with Mary's refusal to compromise her integrity for personal gain.
Community and Gossip
The presence of relatives like Jonah Featherstone and Mrs. Waule, and their daily visits, reflect the community's interest in Featherstone's wealth and the gossip surrounding his death.
Characters to notice
- Mary Garth
Keeps watch over Featherstone, resists his attempts to involve her in his schemes, and maintains her moral integrity.
- Peter Featherstone
On his deathbed, tries to manipulate Mary into helping him burn a will and take money; dies with keys and money in hand.
- Fred Vincy
Mentioned as the 'young chap' Featherstone wants to call; Mary worries about how his uncle's death will affect him.
- Jonah Featherstone
One of the relatives sleeping in the house, mentioned by Mary.
- Mrs. Waule
Mentioned as one of the relatives who visits daily.
Key passages
“I will not let the close of your life soil the beginning of mine. I will not touch your iron chest or your will.”
Mary refuses to participate in Featherstone's scheme, asserting that she will not allow his dying actions to compromise her own moral future.
Mary's firm moral stance against being drawn into Featherstone's deceptive plans.
“She never forgot that vision of a man wanting to do as he liked at the last.”
Mary is struck by the image of Featherstone desperately trying to exert his will in his final moments.
Reflects the theme of selfishness and the human desire for control even at the end of life.