# The Return of the Prodigal explained — The Blue Castle

> Chapter companion for The Blue Castle by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

Valancy returns to her mother's home in Elm Street, feeling like a stranger. She reveals to her mother, Cousin Stickles, and Uncle Benjamin that she is not dying after all—Dr. Trent's diagnosis was a mistake. She explains that she married Barney out of pity and must leave him to set him free, especially now that she knows he is Bernard Redfern, the son of a millionaire. Uncle Benjamin takes charge, urging the family to be kind and to see the situation as an opportunity rather than a disgrace.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Family Dynamics

The family's attitude shifts dramatically when they learn Barney is a millionaire's son, highlighting the power of wealth and status.

### Identity and Self-Worth

Valancy grapples with her sense of self after the mistaken diagnosis and her decision to leave Barney out of a sense of honor.

## Character check-ins

### Valancy Stirling

Returns home, exhausted and grey-faced, confessing the truth about her mistaken diagnosis and her marriage to Barney.

### Mrs. Stirling

Cold and unwelcoming at first, but softens upon learning that Barney is Bernard Redfern, son of a millionaire.

### Cousin Stickles

Shrewish and suspicious, but becomes willing to be convinced when the truth about Barney's wealth emerges.

### Uncle Benjamin

Takes charge of the situation, urging the family to be kind and seeing Valancy's marriage as a stroke of luck.

## Key lines

> I've come home, Mother

Valancy announces her return to her mother.

_A tired and reluctant homecoming._

> Because I'm not going to die

Valancy explains the reason for her return: she is not dying after all.

_The revelation that Dr. Trent's diagnosis was a mistake._

> I've tricked Barney into marrying me—and he's really Bernard Redfern. Dr. Redfern's son, of Montreal.

Valancy confesses that Barney is actually the son of a wealthy doctor.

_The disclosure of Barney's true identity and Valancy's guilt._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blue_castle_se/chapters/xl
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blue_castle_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_blue_castle_se/chapters