Sons and Lovers · Chapter
II: The Birth of Paul, and Another Battle explained
After a violent scene, Walter Morel briefly helps his pregnant wife but soon returns to his old habits.
What happens
After a violent scene, Walter Morel briefly helps his pregnant wife but soon returns to his old habits. He steals sixpence from her purse, lies about it, and leaves home with a bundle, only to hide it in the coal-place. The family endures a tense weekend of silence and alienation, with Morel retreating to the pub and his wife and children suffering in strained domesticity.
Themes in this chapter
Marital Discord and Alienation
The chapter depicts the ongoing battle between Walter and Gertrude Morel, marked by theft, lies, silence, and emotional withdrawal.
Gender Roles and Expectations
Walter's role as a miner and provider clashes with his domestic irresponsibility, while Gertrude manages the home and children under financial strain.
Characters to notice
- Walter Morel
Steals sixpence from his wife's purse, lies, and briefly leaves home; later sulks in bed and goes to the Palmerston pub.
- Gertrude Morel
Discovers the theft, confronts her husband, and endures his silent resentment; she remains strong and contemptuous.
- William Morel
Asks about his father's departure and weeps with Annie; later reads aloud during the tense Sunday tea.
- Annie Morel
Wails and weeps with William over their father's departure; listens to William's reading on Sunday.
Key passages
“After such a scene as the last, Walter Morel was for some days abashed and ashamed, but he soon regained his old bullying indifference.”
Following the earlier confrontation, Walter Morel felt embarrassed for a while but quickly returned to his usual domineering and uncaring attitude.
Highlights Morel's pattern of temporary remorse followed by relapse.
“So he took the sixpence, put the purse carefully back, and went out.”
He stole the sixpence, replaced the purse exactly as it was, and left the house.
Illustrates Morel's deceitful and sneaky behavior.
“The family life withdrew, shrank away, and became hushed as he entered.”
When Morel came into the room, the family became quiet and withdrawn, as if retreating from his presence.
Shows the emotional distance and fear within the household.