# XV explained — Pelle the Conqueror

> Chapter companion for Pelle the Conqueror by Martin Andersen Nexø.

## What happens

Lasse visits Madam Olsen to thank her for her kindness to Pelle, and they discuss the possibility of marriage. Meanwhile, Stone Farm experiences a positive change after the mistress's departure, with the farmer becoming more cheerful and involved. Lasse uses Pelle as a messenger to court Madam Olsen, who receives a warning about her husband's death. The chapter also includes gossip about Bodil's infidelity and the farmer's improved demeanor.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fatherhood and Family

Lasse's efforts to secure a new wife and home for himself and Pelle, and his use of Pelle as a go-between, underscore the theme of family bonds and the desire for stability.

### Community and Belonging

The gossip in the stable and the interactions among farm workers illustrate the tight-knit community and the importance of social connections.

### Poverty and Survival

Lasse's anxiety about marriage and his financial struggles, including the mention of a legacy, highlight the challenges of poverty and the need for economic security.

## Character check-ins

### Father Lasse

Visits Madam Olsen to court her, uses Pelle as a messenger, and discusses marriage prospects.

### Pelle the Conqueror

Acts as a messenger between Lasse and Madam Olsen, listens to gossip in the stable.

### Madam Olsen

Receives Lasse's visit, shares news of her husband's warning, and is courted by Lasse.

### Bodil

Gossiped about for her infidelity and relationship with the pupil.

### Gustav

Mentioned as having a grudge with the farmer and being involved with Bodil.

### Maria

Serves as housemaid and is shown kindness by the farmer.

## Key lines

> I’m only a poor devil compared to you!

Lasse expresses his feelings of inadequacy compared to Madam Olsen's relative prosperity.

_Reflects Lasse's insecurity about his financial status in the context of courtship._

> The greatest take first; that's the way of the world!

Lasse comments on the social hierarchy where those in power have priority over others.

_Illustrates the theme of social class and inequality within the farm community._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pelle_the_conqueror_se/chapters/xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pelle_the_conqueror_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pelle_the_conqueror_se/chapters