Phoebe, Junior · Chapter
XLIV: Phoebe’s Last Trial explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Copperhead confronts Phoebe and Tozer, forbidding Clarence from marrying Phoebe. Clarence defies his father, declaring his love for Phoebe and his willingness to be disowned. Phoebe, though inwardly panicked at the prospect of a poor future with Clarence, refuses to abandon him out of honor. Mr. Copperhead tries to bribe and threaten Phoebe into releasing Clarence, but she stands firm, citing honor as her reason.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Ambition
Phoebe's ambition for Clarence's political career is central; she must choose between a wealthy future and honor when faced with disinheritance.
Love and Selfishness
Clarence's love for Phoebe leads him to defy his father, while Mr. Copperhead's selfishness drives him to try to control his son's marriage.
Social Class and Mobility
Mr. Copperhead's opposition stems from class prejudice; Phoebe's potential marriage to Clarence represents a rise in social status.
Characters to notice
- Phoebe Tozer
Defends her engagement to Clarence against Mr. Copperhead's threats, refuses to abandon Clarence even if he is disowned, and cites honor as her reason for staying.
- Clarence Copperhead
Defies his father, declares his love for Phoebe, and asserts his independence by physically embracing and kissing her.
- Old Mr. Tozer
Anxious and broken down, pleads with Phoebe not to offend Mr. Copperhead, and is distressed by the conflict.
- Mrs. Copperhead
Mentioned as having never shown such resolution as Clarence now displays.
Key passages
“I don't like to have women meddling in my affairs.”
Mr. Copperhead expresses his disdain for women's involvement in business matters.
Reflects Victorian gender roles and Mr. Copperhead's patriarchal attitude.
“What prevents me is a small thing called honour, that is all.”
Phoebe tells Mr. Copperhead that her sense of honor prevents her from breaking off the engagement.
Highlights Phoebe's moral integrity and the theme of honor.