# LXXXVII explained — Of Human Bondage

> Chapter companion for Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

Philip visits Thorpe Athelny at his home, a shabby but historically significant house. Athelny proudly shows off its architectural details and introduces Philip to his large family, including his wife and many children. Philip observes Athelny's eccentricities and the warm, chaotic domestic life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Social Mobility

Athelny's eccentric lifestyle and claims of aristocratic lineage contrast with his modest, shabby home.

### Art and Authenticity

Athelny's passionate appreciation for the house's beauty and his collection of Spanish art reflect a devotion to aesthetic authenticity.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Visits Athelny's home, observes his family and eccentricities.

### Thorpe Athelny

Hosts Philip, shows off his house and introduces his family.

### Sally Athelny

Athelny's eldest daughter, age fifteen, helps serve dinner.

### Mrs. Athelny

Athelny's wife, busy in the kitchen, greets Philip warmly.

## Key lines

> An uneasy feeling came to Philip that possibly the whole story was an elaborate imposture, not told with any base motive, but merely from a wish to impress, startle, and amaze.

Philip suspected Athelny's tales of ancestry might be exaggerated for effect.

_Philip's skepticism about Athelny's background._

> Sanitation be damned, give me art,

Athelny prioritizes art over hygiene.

_Athelny's flamboyant disregard for practicality._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters