# The Winding-Up explained — Shirley

> Chapter companion for Shirley by Charlotte Brontë.

## What happens

The final chapter resolves the fates of the main characters. Robert Moore, saved by the repeal of the Orders in Council, proposes to Caroline Helstone, and they plan a future together with her mother. Two weddings take place: Louis Moore marries Shirley Keeldar, and Robert Moore marries Caroline. The chapter also provides a brief, ironic account of the curates' later lives, noting Mr. Sweeting's and Mr. Donne's successful marriages and careers, while Mr. Malone vanishes from the scene. The narrative ends with a nostalgic glimpse of the transformed Hollow, now industrialized, as recalled by an old housekeeper.

## Themes in this chapter

### Industrialization and Social Unrest

Robert Moore's vision of transforming the Hollow into an industrial hub with mills and cottages, and the housekeeper's recollection of the old mill's construction and demolition, highlight the theme of industrial change.

### Love and Marriage

The chapter culminates in two marriages (Robert and Caroline, Louis and Shirley), and the curates' marriages are also described, emphasizing romantic resolution.

### Social Class and Inequality

Moore's plans to provide work and housing for the unemployed, and the contrast between the wealthy landowners and the workers, reflect class dynamics.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Moore

Reveals his plans for industrial development of the Hollow, proposes to Caroline, and marries her.

### Caroline Helstone

Accepts Robert's proposal, discusses her mother's living arrangements, and marries Robert.

### Shirley Keeldar

Marries Louis Moore; described as grand and bonny at the wedding.

### Louis Moore

Marries Shirley Keeldar; involved in letting tenements to workers.

### Mrs. Pryor

Discussed as living with Caroline and Robert after marriage; stipulates her own rooms and servant.

### Mr. Sweeting

Marries Dora Sykes, inducted to a comfortable living, lives happily.

### Mr. Donne

Marries a sensible woman, becomes an exemplary domestic character and active parish priest, known for begging skills.

### Mr. Malone

Vanishes from Briarfield parish; his fate is not detailed.

## Key lines

> The repeal of the Orders in Council saves me. Now I shall not turn bankrupt; now I shall not give up business; now I shall not leave England; now I shall be no longer poor; now I can pay my debts; now all the cloth I have in my warehouses will be taken off my hands, and commissions given me for much more.

The repeal of the trade restrictions prevents my bankruptcy, allows me to continue my business in England, clears my debts, and secures new orders for my cloth.

_Robert explains to Caroline how the political change directly saves his financial situation._

> I will pour the waters of Pactolus through the valley of Briarfield.

I will bring great wealth to Briarfield valley.

_Robert uses a mythological reference to promise prosperity through his industrial plans._

> Such a Sunday school as you will have, Cary! such collections as you will get! such a day school as you and Shirley and Miss Ainley will have to manage between you!

You will have a large Sunday school, raise significant funds, and run a day school with Shirley and Miss Ainley.

_Robert envisions Caroline's future philanthropic activities._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/shirley_se/chapters/xxxvii-the-winding-up
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/shirley_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/shirley_se/chapters