The Financier · Chapter
Chapter XVII explained
The chapter details the growing closeness between Frank Cowperwood and Aileen Butler, set against the backdrop of preparations for a grand reception and dance celebrating the opening of the Cowperwood homes.
What happens
The chapter details the growing closeness between Frank Cowperwood and Aileen Butler, set against the backdrop of preparations for a grand reception and dance celebrating the opening of the Cowperwood homes. Aileen's dissatisfaction with her family's old house and her father's stubbornness is highlighted, as she yearns for the refinement and elegance of the Cowperwood household. Meanwhile, Anna and Mrs. Frank Cowperwood privately criticize Aileen's lack of refinement, revealing social tensions. The chapter also explores Butler's paternal concern for Aileen's future and the complex social dynamics of the upcoming event.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Social Mobility
Aileen's desire for a better house and her family's resistance highlight the struggle for social refinement and mobility within the wealthy class.
Love and Betrayal
The growing closeness between Frank and Aileen, despite Frank's marriage, foreshadows potential betrayal and romantic entanglement.
Deception and Self-Justification
Anna and Mrs. Cowperwood's private criticisms of Aileen reveal social hypocrisy and self-justification in maintaining appearances.
Characters to notice
- Frank Algernon Cowperwood
Growing closer to Aileen Butler; his new home is the site of the upcoming reception.
- Aileen Butler
Now nineteen, dissatisfied with her family's old house and yearning for refinement; increasingly drawn to Frank Cowperwood.
- Edward Malia Butler
Stubbornly defends his old house against his daughters' complaints; concerned about Aileen's future and marriage prospects.
- Lillian Cowperwood
Discusses Aileen's lack of refinement with Anna; involved in planning the reception.
- Anna Adelaide Cowperwood
Criticizes Aileen's dress and behavior; helps supervise the invitation list for the reception.
- Norah
Seventeen-year-old sister of Aileen; joins in complaining about the old house and supports Aileen's desire for a new one.
Key passages
“She's so hoidenish... She thinks she knows so much, and she isn't a bit refined.”
Anna criticizes Aileen for being unrefined and overly self-assured.
Reflects the social judgment and class tensions between the Cowperwood and Butler families.
“I don't like the way she dresses... She gets herself up too conspicuously.”
Anna disapproves of Aileen's flashy and attention-seeking clothing style.
Highlights the theme of social propriety and the contrast between old and new money tastes.
“Some rich man was going to many her—some fine, rich young man with good business instincts—and he, her father, would leave her a lot of money.”
Butler hopes Aileen will marry a wealthy, shrewd young man and receive a substantial inheritance from him.
Illustrates Butler's traditional views on marriage and financial security for his daughter.