# XII: Coverdale's Hermitage explained — The Blithedale Romance

> Chapter companion for The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

## What happens

Coverdale retreats to his secluded hermitage in a pine tree, where he observes the Blithedale community from a distance and reflects on his companions. He witnesses a tense conversation between Zenobia and Professor Westervelt, revealing a past intimate relationship turned to hatred, and overhears Zenobia's distress over a mysterious bond. Coverdale also muses on Hollingsworth's obsessive philanthropy, Priscilla's fragility, and his own skeptical mood influenced by Westervelt.

## Themes in this chapter

### Idealism vs. Reality

Coverdale's lofty perspective makes the community's reform efforts seem ridiculous, contrasting idealistic goals with mundane reality.

### Secrecy and Identity

Coverdale spies from his hidden hermitage, uncovering hidden tensions between Zenobia and Westervelt.

### Obsession and Philanthropy

Hollingsworth's driving of oxen symbolizes his obsessive, single-minded pursuit of reform.

## Character check-ins

### Miles Coverdale

Narrator who retreats to his hermitage and observes others from above.

### Zenobia

Seen in intense conversation with Westervelt, showing anger and past intimacy.

### Mr. Hollingsworth

Observed driving oxen; Coverdale criticizes his philanthropic obsession.

### Priscilla

Seen sitting at Zenobia's window, sewing; Coverdale sends her a mental message.

### Professor Westervelt

Walks with Zenobia in the wood; his skeptical influence affects Coverdale.

## Key lines

> At my height above the earth, the whole matter looks ridiculous!

From my elevated viewpoint, the entire reform project appears absurd.

_Coverdale's detachment leads to skepticism about the community's goals._

> Tell her that Zenobia will not be long her friend. Say that Hollingsworth's heart is on fire with his own purpose, but icy for all human affection

Warn Priscilla that Zenobia's friendship is fleeting and that Hollingsworth is consumed by his own mission, cold to love.

_Coverdale's imagined message reveals his perceptions of the relationships._

> If my Creator cares aught for my soul, let him release me from this miserable bond!

Zenobia prays to be freed from a painful connection that is suffocating her.

_Zenobia's anguish hints at a secret, oppressive relationship with Westervelt._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blithedale_romance_se/chapters/xii-coverdale-s-hermitage
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blithedale_romance_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blithedale_romance_se/chapters