National Avenue · Chapter
The Heat of the Night explained
Dan Oliphant struggles to comfort his new wife Lena, who is overwhelmed by the heat and her new surroundings.
What happens
Dan Oliphant struggles to comfort his new wife Lena, who is overwhelmed by the heat and her new surroundings. Their tense interaction is observed by Martha Shelby, who shares a quiet moment with Dan at the fence. Lena's refusal to eat and her outburst against Dan's family highlight the growing rift between them, while Dan remains hopeful about their future at Ornaby Addition.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Alienation
Dan and Lena's marriage is already strained by misunderstanding and unmet expectations, symbolized by Lena's weeping and Dan's sense of her as a stranger.
Home and Belonging
Lena feels trapped and alienated in Dan's hometown, while Dan sees Ornaby Addition as their future home and escape.
Characters to notice
- Dan Oliphant
Paces the lawn in distress, trying to understand Lena's unhappiness and clinging to hopes for Ornaby Addition.
- Lena McMillan
Suffers from the heat and emotional turmoil, refusing food and lashing out at Dan's family.
- Martha Shelby
Meets Dan at the fence, expresses concern about Lena's dislike of her, and overhears Lena's outburst.
- Mrs. Savage
Makes a cutting remark about Lena's 'tantrums' from the hallway, heard by Dan.
Key passages
“What on earth are you staring at?”
Lena asks Dan why he is looking at his parents outside.
Shows Lena's irritation and Dan's distraction.
“I'm afraid your wife isn't going to like me.”
Martha confesses her fear that Lena will never accept her.
Highlights the social tension and Martha's sensitivity.
“Take me out of this. Keep your promise to me and take me abroad.”
Lena demands that Dan fulfill his earlier promise to travel to Europe.
Reveals Lena's desperation and the broken promise that fuels her resentment.