Middlemarch · Chapter
Chapter XXXVII explained
Dorothea attempts to discuss with Mr.
What happens
Dorothea attempts to discuss with Mr. Casaubon the injustice of Will Ladislaw's disinheritance, urging that he be given his rightful share of the property. Casaubon rebukes her sharply, asserting his sole authority over such matters. Meanwhile, Will writes a defiant letter rejecting Casaubon's attempts to control his choices, and Casaubon grows suspicious of Will's motives. Will contrives to see Dorothea alone at Lowick, finding an opportunity when Casaubon is away.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Illusion
Dorothea's idealistic hopes for a partnership are shattered by Casaubon's authoritarian dismissal of her concerns.
Money and Economic Pressure
The dispute over property and inheritance drives the conflict between Casaubon, Dorothea, and Will.
Gender Roles and Women's Agency
Dorothea's attempt to assert moral judgment is rebuffed by Casaubon's assertion of male authority over financial and familial decisions.
Characters to notice
- Dorothea Brooke
Resolves to speak to her husband about Will Ladislaw's claim to property, but is met with harsh rebuke; later enjoys a private meeting with Will.
- Edward Casaubon
Angrily rejects Dorothea's interference in his affairs, suspects Will of improper motives, and considers how to counter Will's presence in Middlemarch.
- Will Ladislaw
Writes a defiant letter to Casaubon asserting his freedom; contrives to meet Dorothea alone at Lowick, feeling a passionate devotion to her.
- Mr. Brooke
Arranges for Will to visit Lowick and introduces him around Middlemarch as a relative of Casaubon's.
- Sir James Chettam
Considered by Casaubon as a potential ally in remonstrating against Will's presence.
Key passages
“But if one has too much in consequence of others being wronged, it seems to me that the divine voice which tells us to set that wrong right must be obeyed.”
Dorothea argues that possessing wealth gained through injustice imposes a moral duty to correct that wrong.
Dorothea's moral reasoning is rooted in religious duty and a sense of justice.
“It is not for you to interfere between me and Mr. Ladislaw, and still less to encourage communications from him to you which constitute a criticism on my procedure.”
Casaubon forbids Dorothea from involving herself in his dealings with Will or from receiving Will's opinions as a critique of his actions.
Casaubon asserts his patriarchal authority and rejects Dorothea's agency.
“The simple truth was that nothing then invited him so strongly as the presence of Dorothea.”
Will's primary motivation was his desire to be near Dorothea.
The narrator reveals Will's emotional attachment as the driving force behind his actions.