Waxworks explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Miserliness and Obsession

  Henry's anxiety over spending money, even on his honeymoon, and his internal struggle between his love for Violet and his secret passion for thrift, highlight his miserly obsession.

• Love and Marriage in Middle Age

  The chapter depicts the early romance of Henry and Violet's marriage, with Henry feeling like a young millionaire and enjoying the novelty of being married, despite his financial worries.

• Class and Social Mobility

  The crowds at Madame Tussaud's are described as plain, respectable people, contrasting with the fashionable West End, reflecting class distinctions and Henry's sense of superiority.

• Urban Decay and Industrial London

  The setting of Madame Tussaud's in London, with its Victorian interior and crowds, evokes the urban landscape of early 20th-century London, though the chapter focuses more on the attraction itself.

Characters to notice

• Henry Earlforward

  Henry is on his honeymoon, anxious about spending money but enjoying the romance. He feels protective and superior to Violet, and is secretly thrilled by her dependence on him.

• Violet Earlforward

  Violet is lively and curious, suggesting the visit to Madame Tussaud's. She pays for the entry and is emotionally affected by the exhibits, especially the Chamber of Horrors, where she clings to Henry.

• Elsie

  Elsie is briefly mentioned as being left in charge of the shop during Henry and Violet's wedding journey, with Violet instructing her to retire early.

Key passages

• “Half a crown for the two was less than he had feared, but he felt in his trouser-pocket and half a crown was more than he had there, and he slowly pulled out of his breast-pocket an old Treasury-note case.”

  Henry was relieved the entry fee was only half a crown, but he didn't have enough change in his pocket, so he reluctantly took out his old note case.

  Illustrates Henry's anxiety over spending money, even small amounts, on his honeymoon.

• “He had never in his life been to a picture-theatre. Why should he have gone? He had never felt the craving for 'amusement.'”

  Henry had never visited a cinema before because he never felt the need for entertainment.

  Highlights Henry's lack of interest in leisure activities, contrasting with his current honeymoon experience.

• “I hardly think we ought to consider expense on a day like this.”

  Henry suggests they shouldn't worry about the cost on their wedding day.

  Shows Henry's internal conflict between his miserly nature and his desire to be generous for Violet.