# XXXI explained — Miss Mole

> Chapter companion for Miss Mole by E. H. Young.

## What happens

Hannah observes Robert Corder's self-deceptive handling of Howard's departure, noting his need to maintain a facade of broad-mindedness. Ruth, relieved by her father's unexpected gentleness, questions Hannah about her past and her cousin Hilda. Hannah reflects on her own influence and considers the possibility of marrying Corder to spite Lilla. Uncle Jim and Hannah discuss the future of Ruth and Ethel, with Jim suggesting Hannah marry Corder herself.

## Themes in this chapter

### Truth, Deception, and Moral Ambiguity

Hannah critiques Robert Corder's self-deception and his need to maintain a false image of himself as broad-minded and optimistic.

### Power and Control in Domestic Life

Hannah manipulates situations to influence Robert Corder's behavior and considers marrying him for control over the chapel.

### Identity and Self-Perception

Hannah reflects on her own past, her feet, and her cousin Hilda, revealing her complex self-image and resilience.

## Character check-ins

### Miss Hannah Mole

Observes Robert Corder's self-deception, reflects on her own past and cousin Hilda, considers marrying Corder to supplant Lilla.

### Ruth

Expresses relief at her father's gentleness, questions Hannah about her past and cousin Hilda, decides to go to South Africa to be with Howard.

### Robert Corder

Reassures his children after Howard's departure, maintains a facade of broad-mindedness, is unaware of Hannah's influence.

### Uncle Jim

Discusses the future of Ruth and Ethel with Hannah, suggests Hannah marry Robert Corder, shows astuteness about the household.

### Ethel Corder

Mentioned as having surprised admiration for her father's behavior, and as a potential marriage prospect.

### Lilla

Referred to as Mrs. Spenser-Smith, Hannah considers supplanting her as leading lady of the chapel.

## Key lines

> To see Robert Corder reassuring his children, gravely taking this new burden on himself and shouldering it courageously, was for Hannah, rather like watching a man palming off the work of an artist as his own

Hannah saw Robert Corder's display of paternal care as a dishonest appropriation of credit that rightfully belonged to her.

_Highlights Hannah's critical view of Corder's self-deception._

> Isn't it wonderful not to be as miserable as you thought you were going to be?

Ruth expresses relief that her anticipated misery did not materialize.

_Shows Ruth's emotional state and her gratitude for Hannah's influence._

> I wish to goodness you'd marry him yourself.

Uncle Jim suggests that Hannah should marry Robert Corder.

_Reflects Jim's pragmatic and unscrupulous view of Hannah's situation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se/chapters/xxxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se/chapters