Miss Marjoribanks · Chapter
Chapter XXXIV explained
Lucilla Marjoribanks confronts Mr.
What happens
Lucilla Marjoribanks confronts Mr. Cavendish about his feelings for Barbara Lake, sacrificing her own potential match with him for what she believes is the general good. She later reflects on her decision with a sense of duty and loneliness, finding consolation in the faith of a humble friend.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Perception and Ego
Lucilla's internal conflict between her own desires and her sense of duty highlights her self-perception as a rational, superior being.
Marriage as a Social Institution
Marriage is discussed as a social arrangement, with Lucilla advising Mr. Cavendish to marry Barbara Lake for practical reasons.
Performance and Appearance
Lucilla's actions are misinterpreted by others, including Mr. Cavendish and Dr. Marjoribanks, who see her as acting or weak.
Characters to notice
- Lucilla Marjoribanks
Lucilla decides to give up Mr. Cavendish, advising him to marry Barbara Lake, and later feels a sense of duty and loneliness.
- Mr. Cavendish
Mr. Cavendish is shocked and furious when Lucilla advises him about Barbara Lake, feeling insulted and humiliated.
- Barbara Lake
Barbara Lake is mentioned as the object of Mr. Cavendish's supposed affections, according to Lucilla.
- Dr. Marjoribanks
Dr. Marjoribanks shows irritation with Lucilla, suspecting her of weakness regarding Mr. Cavendish.
- Mrs. Mortimer
Mrs. Mortimer, now married to the Archdeacon, advises Lucilla on how to attract a husband, but Lucilla dismisses the idea.
Key passages
“She made an involuntary pause for the hundredth part of a minute, and reckoned it all up again, and asked herself whether it were possible.”
Lucilla briefly hesitated and reconsidered whether she could accept Mr. Cavendish.
Lucilla's moment of doubt about her decision regarding Mr. Cavendish.
“I am going to give you good advice”
Lucilla tells Mr. Cavendish she will offer him advice.
Lucilla's direct approach to Mr. Cavendish about his relationship with Barbara Lake.
“The thunderbolt fell upon the victim’s unprotected head without any warning.”
Mr. Cavendish was completely shocked by Lucilla's suggestion about Barbara Lake.
Mr. Cavendish's reaction to Lucilla's advice.
“She had made a sacrifice, and nobody appreciated it.”
Lucilla felt her selfless decision was unrecognized by others.
Lucilla's reflection on her sacrifice for the general good.