One of Ours · Chapter
I explained
The chapter introduces the Wheeler family and their farm in Nebraska.
What happens
The chapter introduces the Wheeler family and their farm in Nebraska. Claude Wheeler wakes early on circus day, eager to go to Frankfort. His father Nat Wheeler is a large, jovial man who enjoys driving around the country and interacting with neighbors, while his mother is a quiet presence. Claude's brother Ralph is lazy, and the hired men Dan and Jerry are rough. Claude shows compassion for an injured mare, Molly, who was mistreated by Jerry.
Themes in this chapter
Rural vs. Urban Life
The contrast between the Wheeler farm's rural setting and the town of Frankfort, where Bayliss runs his business, is highlighted.
Family and Individuality
The Wheeler family members have distinct personalities and interests, from Nat's sociability to Bayliss's prudishness and Claude's sensitivity.
Nature and the Land
The Nebraska landscape is vividly described, and Nat Wheeler's deep connection to the land and its history is emphasized.
Characters to notice
- Claude Wheeler
Wakes early, washes the car, and shows concern for the injured mare Molly.
- Ralph Wheeler
Claude's younger brother, reluctant to get up for the circus.
- Nat Wheeler
Claude's father, a large, easygoing man who enjoys driving around the country and interacting with neighbors.
- Mrs. Wheeler
Claude's mother, who quietly manages the household and wonders about her husband's relationship with Bayliss.
- Mahailey
The old servant, fond of Claude, starts the fire and bakes griddle cakes.
- Bayliss Wheeler
Claude's older brother, a thin, dyspeptic Prohibitionist who runs a farm implement business in Frankfort.
Key passages
“He guessed if she could stand having these men about, could cook and wash for them, he could drive them to town!”
Claude thinks that if his mother can tolerate the hired men and do their chores, he can certainly drive them to town.
Reflects Claude's respect for his mother's hard work and his own sense of duty.
“The French saying, “Joy of the street, sorrow of the home,” was exemplified in Mr. Wheeler, though not at all in the French way.”
Nat Wheeler is more cheerful and engaged outside the home than within it, but without the romantic connotations of the French saying.
Highlights Nat Wheeler's preference for socializing over domestic life.
“Even Mrs. Wheeler, who took the men God had apportioned her for granted, wondered how Bayliss and his father could go off to conventions together and have a good time, since their ideas of what made a good time were so different.”
Mrs. Wheeler accepts her family as given but is puzzled by the bond between her husband and Bayliss despite their contrasting temperaments.
Illustrates the family dynamics and the mystery of Nat and Bayliss's relationship.