Miss Marjoribanks · Chapter
Chapter XLV explained
Lucilla's decision to remain in Grange Lane after her father's death surprises Carlingford society, which had expected her to leave.
What happens
Lucilla's decision to remain in Grange Lane after her father's death surprises Carlingford society, which had expected her to leave. Despite offers from Aunt Jemima and the Chileys, she resolves to stay in the family home with only two hundred a year, winning the support of the devoted cook Nancy.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Social Hierarchy
Lucilla's reduced circumstances and her determination to maintain her position in Grange Lane highlight the importance of social standing.
Community and Gossip
Carlingford's speculation about Lucilla's future and the 'guilty delight' at her possible departure show the community's intense scrutiny.
Self-Perception and Ego
Lucilla's resolve to stay despite universal disapproval demonstrates her strong sense of self and independence.
Practicality vs. Romance
Lucilla's practical plan to live frugally with Nancy contrasts with romantic expectations of her leaving or marrying.
Characters to notice
- Lucilla Marjoribanks
Decides to remain in Grange Lane despite universal disapproval, supported only by Nancy.
- Aunt Jemima
Offers Lucilla a home and expresses dismay at her niece's plan to stay in the melancholy house.
- Colonel Chiley
Visits to offer Lucilla a home with him and Mrs. Chiley, and is shocked by her decision to stay.
- Nancy
The devoted cook who enthusiastically supports Lucilla's plan to stay, despite the reduced income.
- Mrs. Chiley
Mentioned as having sent the Colonel with the offer of a home for Lucilla.
- Dr. Marjoribanks
His death and the memory of his last words to Lucilla are mourned by both Lucilla and Nancy.
- Mrs. Beverley
Writes a kind letter inviting Lucilla to the Deanery for a long visit.
- Archdeacon Beverley
Adds a postscript to his wife's letter, offering Lucilla a home at the Deanery.
Key passages
“It must be allowed that Lucilla's decision caused very general surprise in Carlingford, where people had been disposed to think that she would be rather glad, now that things were so changed, to get away.”
Lucilla's choice to stay in Carlingford surprised everyone, as they assumed she would want to leave after her father's death.
Sets up the central conflict of the chapter: Lucilla's unexpected decision.
“The bound of freedom had been premature—liberty and equality had not come yet, notwithstanding that too early unwise élan of republican satisfaction.”
The ladies of Carlingford had prematurely celebrated their imagined freedom from Lucilla's social rule.
Uses political metaphor to describe social dynamics.
“All he said was, Poor Lucilla!”
The Doctor's last words were an expression of concern for his daughter, not for himself or his lost fortune.
Highlights the Doctor's selfless love and the emotional core of the chapter.
