The Dewy Morn · Chapter
XV explained
Robert Godwin, consumed by jealousy, becomes convinced that Felise is the pursuer in her relationship with Martial and that they are lovers.
What happens
Robert Godwin, consumed by jealousy, becomes convinced that Felise is the pursuer in her relationship with Martial and that they are lovers. He orchestrates meetings between them at his home, watching from his window as they play tennis and stroll, torturing himself with the sight. His obsession drives him to clean and prepare two old flintlock pistols, foreshadowing violence.
Themes in this chapter
Obsession and Jealousy
Godwin's jealousy drives him to spy on Felise and Martial, torturing himself with their happiness and preparing weapons.
Love and Idealization
Felise's passionate pursuit of Martial contrasts with his indifference, highlighting the imbalance in their love.
Freedom vs. Control
Godwin manipulates meetings and watches from his window, exerting control while Felise and Martial act freely.
Characters to notice
- Robert Godwin
Consumed by jealousy, he spies on Felise and Martial, tortures himself with their happiness, and prepares pistols.
- Felise Goring
Portrayed as the passionate pursuer in the relationship with Martial; she eagerly participates in meetings arranged by Godwin.
- Martial Barnard
Receives Felise's love with indifference; agrees to assist Godwin with statistics and meets Felise at Beechknoll.
- Mr. Goring
Felise's uncle, a gardener who shares botanical interests with Martial and cannot thwart Felise's will.
- Miss Goring
Godwin's sister, who obeys his orders without question, sent to invite Felise to visit.
Key passages
“the first was that Felise was the lover; Felise was courting, not courted; Felise was the passionate one.”
Godwin realizes that Felise is the one actively pursuing Martial, not the other way around.
Highlights Godwin's perception of Felise's dominant role in the relationship.
“He stretched himself on the leathern bed of torture; he turned the screws and tore himself on the rack.”
Godwin deliberately inflicts emotional pain on himself by watching the lovers.
Metaphor for Godwin's self-destructive jealousy.
“the sweet dew of their kisses was as molten iron on his lips.”
The thought of Felise and Martial kissing causes Godwin intense, burning pain.
Illustrates the visceral agony of his jealousy.