Of Human Bondage · Chapter
XXXIII explained
Philip becomes preoccupied with Miss Wilkinson's hinted past and decides to seduce her.
What happens
Philip becomes preoccupied with Miss Wilkinson's hinted past and decides to seduce her. After a series of awkward attempts, he finally kisses her in the garden. Meanwhile, plans are made for Philip to become a chartered accountant in London, and he and Miss Wilkinson part with a sense of romantic tension.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Obsession
Philip's infatuation with Miss Wilkinson drives him to pursue a romantic conquest, blending curiosity and desire.
Class and Social Mobility
Philip's decision to become a chartered accountant reflects the shifting professional landscape and his need to secure a respectable place in society.
Characters to notice
- Philip Carey
Obsessed with Miss Wilkinson's stories, he resolves to kiss her and succeeds; also agrees to become a chartered accountant.
- Miss Wilkinson
Flirts with Philip, teaches him singing, and eventually allows him to kiss her; she is leaving Blackstable soon.
- Mrs. Carey
Scolds Miss Wilkinson for flirting with Philip and discusses Philip's future with the Vicar.
- William Carey
Corresponds with the family lawyer about Philip's career; decides on chartered accountancy.
- Albert Nixon
Family lawyer who advises against Philip becoming a solicitor and suggests chartered accountancy.
- Herbert Carter
Accountant who agrees to take Philip as an articled pupil.
Key passages
“Philip could not get Miss Wilkinson's story out of his head. It was clear enough what she meant even though she cut it short, and he was a little shocked.”
Philip is haunted by Miss Wilkinson's hinted sexual past and feels both shocked and intrigued.
Highlights Philip's naivety and growing curiosity about romance.
“He put his arm round her waist and kissed her lips. She only laughed a little and made no attempt to withdraw.”
Philip finally kisses Miss Wilkinson, and she accepts it playfully.
Marks the culmination of Philip's romantic pursuit.
“The profession was greatly overcrowded, and without capital or connections a man had small chance of becoming more than a managing clerk; he suggested, however, that Philip should become a chartered accountant.”
The lawyer advises against law due to limited prospects and recommends chartered accountancy as a better career path.
Reflects the practical considerations shaping Philip's future.