# XCI explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip prepares his room for Mildred's arrival, helping her move in with her baby. They share an awkward but civil supper, and Philip reassures her that their arrangement is purely business. He feels no romantic attachment to her, only pity, and they settle into a domestic routine.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Disillusionment

Mildred's reduced circumstances and Philip's lack of romantic feeling highlight the disillusionment and suffering in their relationship.

### Class and Social Mobility

Mildred's shame about service and Philip's insistence on a business arrangement reflect class tensions and social mobility struggles.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Prepares the room for Mildred, feels no love for her but pity, and establishes a business-like arrangement.

### Mildred Rogers

Arrives with her baby, is subdued and exhausted, and initially feels humiliated about eating with Philip.

## Key lines

> Don't think I'm conferring any benefit on you. It's simply a business arrangement, I'm giving you board and lodging in return for your work. You don't owe me anything. And there's nothing humiliating to you in it.

Philip tells Mildred that their living arrangement is purely transactional, with no obligation or shame attached.

_Philip tries to alleviate Mildred's feelings of degradation by framing their cohabitation as a practical exchange._

## Links

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