# Phineas Finn Is Elected for Loughshane explained — Phineas Finn

> Chapter companion for Phineas Finn by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Phineas Finn is elected as the Liberal member for Loughshane after Lord Tulla unexpectedly supports him over his own brother, George Morris. Dr. Finn visits Lord Tulla to break the news, and the Earl agrees to back Phineas. Phineas returns to London, asserting his independence in Parliament, which dismays Barrington Erle, a staunch party man. The chapter also includes a private conversation between Barbara Finn and Mary Flood Jones, hinting at Mary's feelings for Phineas.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ambition and Social Mobility

Phineas's election as an MP from a modest background illustrates his rise in society, though his father has misgivings about the costs.

### Politics and Patronage

Lord Tulla's support for Phineas over his own brother demonstrates the power of personal and familial connections in political elections.

### Honor and Integrity

Phineas insists on his independence in Parliament, vowing to vote according to his principles rather than party lines, which shocks Barrington Erle.

## Character check-ins

### Phineas Finn

Elected as MP for Loughshane; asserts his independence in Parliament, causing concern for Barrington Erle.

### Barrington Erle

Disgusted by Phineas's talk of independence; compares him to a plunging colt that will be tamed.

### Dr. Finn

Visits Lord Tulla to announce Phineas's candidacy; secures the Earl's support despite political differences.

### Lord Tulla

Agrees to support Phineas over his brother George Morris, expressing disillusionment with his party.

### Mary Flood Jones

Discussed in private with Barbara Finn; denies any romantic attachment to Phineas but shows concern.

### Barbara Finn

Teases Mary about Phineas; assures Mary that Phineas remains unchanged by his election.

### George Morris

Lord Tulla's brother; loses the Earl's support for the Loughshane seat.

## Key lines

> By the end of the first session the thong will be cracked over his head, as he patiently assists in pulling the coach up hill, without producing from him even a flick of his tail

Barrington Erle predicts that Phineas will soon conform to party discipline and lose his independent spirit.

_Reflects Erle's cynical view of parliamentary independence._

> If I go into Parliament, I shall go there as a sound Liberal—not to support a party, but to do the best I can for the country.

Phineas declares his intention to prioritize the national interest over party loyalty.

_Highlights Phineas's idealistic approach to politics._

## Links

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