Pelle the Conqueror · Chapter
Chapter XXVII explained
Tensions escalate between workers and employers as the old tariff expires, leading to a strike.
What happens
Tensions escalate between workers and employers as the old tariff expires, leading to a strike. Pelle, now working in a cleaner office job, observes the conflict from a distance while adjusting to his new life with Ellen and caring for Father Lasse and the children. The chapter ends with Pelle feeling ashamed as the strike begins, knowing it does not affect him directly.
Themes in this chapter
Labor Movement and Solidarity
The workers organize a strike after the tariff expires, demonstrating collective action against employer oppression.
Social Class and Inequality
Pelle's transition to office work highlights class divisions, as he feels ashamed of his new position while former comrades strike.
Poverty and Survival
The threat of unemployment and winter hardship looms over the workers and their families.
Characters to notice
- Pelle the Conqueror
Works in an office job, wears good clothes, feels exalted but conflicted as the strike begins.
- Ellen
Manages the household, plans for the new home, and reacts with fear to the strike news.
- Father Lasse
Looks after the children, wears Pelle's second-best suit, is happy and gaining weight.
Key passages
“They want to destroy the trades unions, so that they can scrape the butter off our bread again”
The workers believe employers aim to eliminate unions to reduce their wages and benefits.
Reflects worker distrust and the stakes of the labor conflict.
“The machinery ceased running, and the roar of it died away; it was as still as though Death had passed through the workshop.”
The factory fell silent when the workers stopped the machines, creating an ominous atmosphere.
Symbolizes the dramatic start of the strike.