The Claverings · Chapter
Harry Clavering Chooses His Profession explained
Harry Clavering decides to become a civil engineer rather than enter the clergy, informing his family of his decision.
What happens
Harry Clavering decides to become a civil engineer rather than enter the clergy, informing his family of his decision. His father, Reverend Henry Clavering, is disappointed but lacks the energy to oppose him, while his mother and sisters offer mixed reactions. The chapter also depicts the Clavering family's dynamics, including the rector's idle habits and his curate Mr. Saul's earnest but awkward efforts.
Themes in this chapter
Duty and Moral Obligation
Harry's father struggles with his own failed ambitions and sense of duty, while Harry asserts his right to choose his own path.
Social Class and Ambition
Harry rejects the traditional clerical path for engineering, inspired by self-made men like Beilby, reflecting changing class dynamics.
Family and Inheritance
The Clavering family's financial and emotional dynamics are explored, including the father's disappointment and the mother's quiet support.
Characters to notice
- Harry Clavering
Announces his decision to pursue civil engineering instead of the clergy, citing ambition and the example of successful engineers like Beilby.
- Mrs. Clavering
Supports Harry's choice privately, though she refrains from openly contradicting her husband.
- Fanny Clavering
Encourages Harry's decision, teasing him about his sister Mary's preference for the clergy.
- Mary Fielding
Expresses doubt about Harry's choice, believing the clerical life is superior.
- Mr. Saul
The curate, who is earnest and diligent but socially awkward, is involved in church matters and is disliked by Sir Hugh.
- Theodore Burton
Mentioned as a partner in the engineering firm Beilby and Burton, where Harry will work.
Key passages
“I shall go to Stratton tomorrow and settle it all.”
Harry plans to finalize his engineering apprenticeship at Stratton the next day.
Harry confirms his decision to pursue civil engineering with the firm Beilby and Burton.
“Look at such men as Locke, and Stephenson, and Brassey. They are the men who seem to me to do most in the world.”
Harry admires engineers like Locke, Stephenson, and Brassey as examples of impactful work.
Harry justifies his career choice by citing successful engineers as role models.
“I see a better path, and know how good it is, but I follow ever the worse.”
The rector recognizes his own failings in living up to his ideals.
Reflects the rector's internal conflict and lack of energy to change his idle habits.