The History of Henry Esmond · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The History of Henry Esmond by William Makepeace Thackeray.
Chapter 1
Dedication
Thackeray dedicates his book to the Right Honorable William Bingham, Lord Ashburton, acknowledging their friendship and explaining that the volume will reach him while the author is traveling to America.
Chapter 2
The History of Henry Esmond
The opening chapter introduces Henry Esmond's early life as an orphan, his arrival at Castlewood, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his parentage and the death of Thomas, the third Viscount. It establishes the key relationships with the Castlewood family, including Lady Castlewood and her children, and hints at the political and religious tensions of the era.
Chapter 3
Book I: The Early Youth of Henry Esmond, Up to the Time of His Leaving Trinity College, in Cambridge
The narrator reflects on the nature of history and its tendency to focus on kings and courtly affairs, contrasting it with the more familiar, human realities of life. He introduces the Esmond family's loyalist history, detailing the sacrifices of the old Lord Castlewood for the Stuart cause, and meditates on the dignity and degradation of exile and misfortune.
Chapter 4
An Account of the Family of Esmond of Castlewood Hall
In 1691, the new Lord and Lady Castlewood arrive at Castlewood Hall. Lady Castlewood discovers a lonely twelve-year-old boy, Henry Esmond, in the book-room. She shows him kindness, and he is welcomed by the family, including their daughter Beatrix and the young heir. Henry, an orphaned kinsman, finds new protectors and a sense of belonging.
Chapter 5
II: Relates How Francis, Fourth Viscount, Arrives at Castlewood
This chapter details the lineage and inheritance of the Castlewood title, focusing on the rivalry between Thomas Esmond and his cousin Frank Esmond. Thomas, a dissolute and impoverished younger son, converts to Catholicism and reconciles with his uncle, Lord Castlewood, to marry his aging cousin Isabel for her fortune and jewels. The marriage produces a sickly son who dies shortly after being touched by the king, leaving the couple childless. Meanwhile, Frank Esmond, who had rejected Isabel, marries a favored court lady and has a daughter, with another child on the way. The chapter also recounts the family's history of loyalty to the Stuart cause, their sacrifices, and the eventual arrival of Francis, the fourth Viscount, at Castlewood.
Chapter 6
Whither in the Time of Thomas, Third Viscount, I Had Preceded Him as Page to Isabella
Henry Esmond, a young boy raised by French refugees in Ealing, is fetched by Father Holt and brought to London, then to Castlewood, where he meets his godfather Lord Castlewood and the intimidating Lady Castlewood. The journey reveals Henry's mixed heritage and his early impressions of the grand household.
Chapter 7
IV: I Am Placed Under a Popish Priest and Bred to That Religion—Viscountess Castlewood
Henry Esmond recounts his early years at Castlewood under the tutelage of Father Holt, a Jesuit priest who gains his absolute devotion. After Holt departs with Lord and Lady Castlewood for London, Harry is left largely alone in the great house, finding solace in books and the solitude. He describes the tense household dynamics between Lord and Lady Castlewood, his harsh treatment by Lady Castlewood, and his growing fondness for Lord Castlewood when away from her. The chapter also touches on the political turmoil of the time, including a mob incident during the trial of the seven bishops, and Harry's first encounter with Colonel Esmond of Walcote.
Chapter 8
My Superiors Are Engaged in Plots for the Restoration of King James II
Father Holt reveals a secret exit from Castlewood and instructs young Harry Esmond in loyalty and discretion. After Holt's departure, Harry is questioned by soldiers of the Prince of Orange but remains silent. The Castlewood family returns in deep dejection after King James II's exile, and Lady Castlewood expresses fierce loyalty to the Stuart cause. Lord Castlewood becomes more active in secret plots, with Holt frequently visiting and using hidden passages. Harry observes but does not pry into the clandestine activities.
Chapter 9
The Issue of the Plots—The Death of Thomas, Third Viscount of Castlewood; and the Imprisonment of His Viscountess
The chapter details the aftermath of the discovery of a Jacobite conspiracy at Castlewood. Lady Castlewood attempts to feign illness to avoid arrest, but the officers, led by Captain Westbury, search the house and find incriminating papers. Lord Castlewood and Father Holt flee, but Lord Castlewood is later wounded at the Battle of the Boyne and dies. Harry Esmond learns of his patron's death and reflects on his own orphaned and illegitimate status.
Chapter 10
I Am Left at Castlewood an Orphan, and Find Most Kind Protectors There
Henry Esmond, now past twelve, reflects on his life at Castlewood after the soldiers depart. He forms a deep, worshipful attachment to the new Lady Castlewood, who is devoted to her husband, Lord Castlewood. The chapter explores the growing tensions in the marriage as Lord Castlewood tires of domestic life and his wife's adoration, while Henry observes and begins to understand the complexities of his protectors.
Chapter 11
VIII: After Good Fortune Comes Evil
The smallpox outbreak in the village threatens Castlewood. Henry Esmond, having spent time with the blacksmith's sick child, is accused by Lady Castlewood of endangering her son Frank. A heated argument ensues, but Lady Castlewood eventually apologizes, and Lord Castlewood defends Henry.
Chapter 12
IX: I Have the Smallpox, and Prepare to Leave Castlewood
Henry Esmond recovers from smallpox, which has left Lady Castlewood's beauty diminished. He struggles with his feelings of guilt and devotion, while preparing to leave Castlewood as his patron Lord Castlewood returns with his daughter Beatrix.
Chapter 13
X: I Go to Cambridge, and Do but Little Good There
Henry Esmond, accompanied by Lord Castlewood, travels to Cambridge to begin his studies at Trinity College. He visits the Dowager Lady Castlewood in Chelsey, who gives him a purse of guineas. At Cambridge, Esmond struggles with loneliness and pride, finding himself older and more solitary than his fellow students. He clashes with his tutor Mr. Bridge, gains some reputation through his writings, and becomes known as a Jacobite, engaging in political antics. Meanwhile, Tom Tusher, a Whig and a friend to authority, contrasts with Esmond's rebellious nature. Esmond spends his time reading widely in literature and theology, fluctuating between Catholicism, Protestantism, and skepticism.
Chapter 14
I Come Home for a Holiday to Castlewood, and Find a Skeleton in the House
Henry Esmond returns to Castlewood for his third long vacation, greeted by Lady Castlewood and her children. He notices a change in Lady Castlewood's demeanor—she seems sadder and more distant. The children reveal that Lord Castlewood has been frequently away, and the household has grown more extravagant. Esmond learns of tensions between Lord and Lady Castlewood, partly due to Lord Castlewood's infatuation with Mrs. Marwood and his insistence on taking the children to Sark Castle, a place Lady Castlewood disapproves of. The chapter also recounts how Esmond once saved young Frank from a fire, earning Lord Castlewood's lasting gratitude.
Chapter 15
My Lord Mohun Comes Among Us for No Good
Henry Esmond returns to Castlewood for his last vacation, finding Beatrix grown into a beautiful and coquettish young woman, and the household strained by the ongoing marital discord between Lord and Lady Castlewood. Lord Mohun arrives as a guest, charming Lord Castlewood but arousing Lady Castlewood's mistrust, deepening the rift between the couple.
Chapter 16
My Lord Leaves Us and His Evil Behind Him
Lord Mohun's renewed intimacy with Lord Castlewood leads to increased gambling and financial strain, causing Lady Castlewood anxiety. Beatrix's jealous outburst reveals tensions, and a confrontation between the lords is narrowly averted by Harry Esmond's intervention.
Chapter 17
XIV: We Ride After Him to London
Lord Castlewood, after a tense departure with Lord Mohun, rides to London with Harry Esmond. He settles a gambling debt with Mohun, but a quarrel over Lady Castlewood's honor leads to a duel in which Lord Castlewood is mortally wounded. Before dying, he confesses his love and forgiveness to his wife, and Esmond burns the confession. Esmond resolves to surrender himself to prison.
Chapter 18
Book II: Contains Mr. Esmond’s Military Life, and Other Matters Appertaining to the Esmond Family
This chapter covers Henry Esmond's military career and various affairs related to the Esmond family, including his service in the Queen's army, his experiences in the Vigo Bay expedition, and his interactions with the Castlewood family.
Chapter 19
I: I Am in Prison, and Visited, but Not Consoled There
Henry Esmond, imprisoned after the fatal duel that killed Lord Castlewood, is visited by Lady Castlewood, who accuses him of failing to protect her husband. Esmond grapples with a secret revealed on Lord Castlewood's deathbed—that he is the rightful heir to the title—but resolves to keep it hidden to protect the family he loves. He endures her rejection and writes a letter to Tom Tusher, congratulating him on his new living, while suffering physical and emotional pain. After a fainting fit, Lady Castlewood tends to him briefly but leaves. Esmond later learns of the trial's outcome: Lord Mohun is convicted of manslaughter but pleads clergy and is freed, while Lady Castlewood vows revenge. Esmond reflects on his suffering and resolves to remain silent for the sake of Frank and his mistress.
Chapter 20
II: I Come to the End of My Captivity, but Not of My Trouble
Henry Esmond, imprisoned in Newgate after the duel, receives visits from Captain Steele, an old acquaintance from Castlewood. Steele brings news of Lady Castlewood and Beatrix, and Esmond pleads with him to intercede with his mistress, but she remains obdurate. Esmond also receives a letter and money from the Dowager Viscountess, who offers him shelter upon his release.
Chapter 21
III: I Take the Queen's Pay in Quin's Regiment
Henry Esmond joins Quin's regiment as an ensign, reflecting on his loyalty to the Jacobite cause, his family's secret, and the political shifts following King William's death and Queen Anne's accession. He confronts the Dowager Lady Castlewood about his birth, asserting his magnanimity in not claiming the title, and prepares for military service.
Chapter 22
IV: Recapitulations
Henry Esmond reflects on his parentage and the secret papers that could prove his claim to the Castlewood title, but he resolves to sacrifice his rights for the sake of the family he loves. He learns from the dying Lord Castlewood that Father Holt revealed the truth about his birth, including a marriage certificate and a dying declaration from Thomas Esmond. Esmond decides not to pursue the claim, allowing young Francis to remain the rightful heir. He visits Ealing to find traces of his past but discovers his old guardians are gone. With his new patroness, the Dowager Lady Castlewood, he prepares for military service, purchasing a fine outfit and enjoying the company of Captain Steele.
Chapter 23
V: I Go on the Vigo Bay Expedition, Taste Saltwater and Smell Powder
Henry Esmond embarks on the Vigo Bay expedition under the Duke of Ormonde, experiencing his first taste of sea and military action. The campaign lifts his spirits and distracts him from past sorrows. Meanwhile, news of Tom Tusher's presumptuous designs on the widowed Lady Castlewood stirs Esmond's indignation, prompting him to rush to Walcote to intervene.
Chapter 24
VI: The 29th December
Henry Esmond returns to Winchester and is reunited with Lady Castlewood and her son Frank at the cathedral. The emotional reconciliation heals the year-long estrangement, as Lady Castlewood explains her past actions and her continued devotion to her children and father, while gently rejecting Henry's plea to begin a new life together.
Chapter 25
VII: I Am Made Welcome at Walcote
Henry Esmond arrives at Walcote to a warm welcome from Lady Castlewood and her family. He is struck by the transformation of Beatrix from a child into a dazzling beauty. During dinner, Frank Castlewood teases his sister about a potential match with the Marquis of Blandford, revealing the family's ambitions and social anxieties. The chapter explores themes of love, duty, and social class as Esmond grapples with his feelings and his place in the family.
Chapter 26
VIII: Family Talk
Henry Esmond, torn between his vow to his dying benefactor and his love for Lady Castlewood, decides to leave Castlewood to avoid temptation. Lady Castlewood perceives his distress and confronts him, revealing her fears for her daughter Beatrix's headstrong nature. Meanwhile, young Frank Castlewood boasts of his family's status and his plans to restore the family honor, hinting at Beatrix's potential marriage to Lord Blandford. Esmond departs, reflecting on his deep affection for his mistress and the family.
Chapter 27
IX: I Make the Campaign of 1704
Esmond joins General Lumley's suite, is gazetted to Brigadier Webb's regiment, and participates in the siege of Bonn. He learns of the death of the young Marquis of Blandford, which ends Frank's hopes for Beatrix's advancement. The army marches toward the Mozelle, and at the Battle of Blenheim, Esmond is wounded and nearly dies. After recovering, he returns to London, eager to see Beatrix, and is welcomed by the Dowager.
Chapter 28
X: An Old Story About a Fool and a Woman
Henry Esmond returns to London after the Blenheim campaign and finds the town captivated by the beauty and charm of his young kinsman, Lord Castlewood, and his sister Beatrix. Lord Castlewood wins favor with the Dowager Lady Castlewood and the Duchess of Marlborough, while Beatrix continues her conquests. Esmond, now a lieutenant, meets his future commander General Webb, a handsome and self-satisfied officer who harbors a rivalry with the Duke of Marlborough. A court squabble between the Duchess and a Popish lady (likely Beatrix) embarrasses Esmond. Meanwhile, Lady Castlewood has moved to Kensington after her father's death, and her son's university career ended in scandal after a riotous celebration of King James's birthday.
Chapter 29
XI: The Famous Mr. Joseph Addison
Henry Esmond meets Joseph Addison through his friend Dick Steele, and the three discuss Addison's poem on the campaign of Blenheim. Esmond shares his firsthand account of the battle, and Addison reveals his poetic philosophy, emphasizing success as a divine quality in the Duke of Marlborough. The chapter also portrays Steele's warm, convivial nature and Addison's modest, scholarly lifestyle.
Chapter 30
XII: I Get a Company in the Campaign of 1706
Henry Esmond recounts the Battle of Ramillies (23 May 1706), where the Duke of Marlborough's forces decisively defeat the French. Esmond is promoted to captain after the battle, and his deep affection for young Frank Castlewood is revealed, rooted in his unrequited love for Beatrix. The chapter contrasts the glory of war with its horrors, and Esmond's tender reunion with Frank highlights his paternal care.
Chapter 31
I Meet an Old Acquaintance in Flanders, and Find My Mother's Grave and My Own Cradle There
Henry Esmond encounters Father Holt, now disguised as Captain von Holtz in the Bavarian Elector's service, in the Church of St. Gudule in Brussels. Holt reveals details of Esmond's parentage: his mother Gertrude Maes, a victim of Captain Thomas Esmond's seduction and abandonment, and his birth in Brussels. Holt takes Esmond to see his mother's grave and the house where she lived, fulfilling Esmond's long-held desire to know his origins.
Chapter 32
XIV: The Campaign of 1707, 1708
The chapter covers the military campaigns of 1707 and 1708, focusing on the inactivity of the Allied army under the Duke of Marlborough, the failed invasion attempt of the Chevalier de St. George, the Battle of Oudenarde, and the siege of Lille. It highlights General Webb's growing reputation and his conflict with Marlborough, as well as the espionage activities of Mr. von Holtz.
Chapter 33
General Webb Wins the Battle of Wynendael
Henry Esmond, as aide-de-camp to General Webb, shares in the glory of the victory at Wynendael, which is celebrated by the Tory party and contrasted with Marlborough's perceived corruption. Esmond's fame brings him closer to his beloved Beatrix and his adoptive family, including Lady Castlewood and the Dowager. He defends General Webb's honor in a duel with Lord Mohun, wounding him, and is later honored by his female relatives for his noble conduct. The chapter explores Esmond's unwavering love for Beatrix despite her flaws, and the political and social rewards of military success.
Chapter 34
Book III: Containing the End of Mr. Esmond’s Adventures in England
The final book of Henry Esmond's adventures in England, covering the conclusion of his military and political engagements, his relationships with the Castlewood family, and his eventual departure from England.
Chapter 35
I: I Come to an End of My Battles and Bruises
Colonel Esmond, having learned of Beatrix's engagement, loses his ambition for military glory and sells his commission, but is persuaded by General Webb to serve as his aide-de-camp. The chapter explores his melancholy, Lady Castlewood's silent anxieties, the Dowager Lady Castlewood's Tory circle, and Esmond's reflections on the Jacobite cause. After the bloody Battle of Oudenarde, Esmond is wounded and nursed by Frank Castlewood. During his convalescence, Father Holt reappears and strengthens Esmond's commitment to the King's side.
Chapter 36
II: I Go Home, and Harp on the Old String
Colonel Esmond returns to London bearing news of Frank Castlewood's secret marriage to a Roman Catholic lady, Mademoiselle de Wertheim. He visits Lady Castlewood, who reveals she has learned of his true inheritance and insists on calling him 'my lord.' Esmond reflects on his unrequited devotion to Beatrix, engaging in philosophical banter with Henry St. John about ambition and love. He reconciles Lady Castlewood to Frank's marriage, and she writes a gentle letter of acceptance, though she worries her frugal stewardship has weakened her hold on her son.
Chapter 37
III: A Paper Out of the Spectator
Henry Esmond reflects on his hopeless love for Beatrix, who mocks him and declares her desire for a wealthy husband. Esmond considers emigrating to America. Lady Castlewood reveals that the Duke of Hamilton has proposed to Beatrix and she will marry him.
Chapter 38
Beatrix's New Suitor
The Duke of Hamilton proposes to Beatrix, and a family secret is revealed: Henry Esmond is the true heir to the Castlewood title but has renounced it for his cousin's sake. Beatrix accepts the Duke's proposal, acknowledging her ambition, while Esmond presents her with diamonds as a wedding gift and resolves to bear his loss with good humor.
Chapter 39
Mohun Appears for the Last Time in This History
Colonel Esmond, now well-connected politically, declines the Duke of Hamilton's offer to serve as secretary on the Paris embassy, unable to bear attending his beloved Beatrix to her marriage. His patron General Webb is celebrated while the Duke of Marlborough falls into disgrace. Esmond engages in political writing for the Tory cause, and has a tense encounter with Dr. Jonathan Swift at a printer's shop. The chapter reflects on how women drive men's actions, from soldiering to politics, and Esmond's own motivations are traced back to his devotion to a woman.
Chapter 40
VI: Poor Beatrix
Esmond returns to find Beatrix preparing for her marriage to the Duke of Hamilton, surrounded by luxury and vanity. He must break the news of the Duke's death in a duel with Lord Mohun, a tragedy that shatters Beatrix's ambitions and deeply affects Lady Castlewood. The chapter reflects on the transience of worldly hopes and the enduring nature of true affection.
Chapter 41
VII: I Visit Castlewood Once More
Colonel Esmond returns to Castlewood after fourteen years, reconnecting with his beloved mistress and the memories of his youth. He discovers hidden papers from Father Holt, including treasonable documents and a patent offering titles to the Castlewood family. The chapter also explores Beatrix's proud and stoic response to her latest disappointment in love and ambition, as well as the political tensions surrounding the Jacobite cause and the succession.
Chapter 42
VIII: I Travel to France and Bring Home a Portrait of Rigaud
Colonel Esmond travels privately to France under the alias Monsieur Simon, visiting Frank Castlewood in Brussels and then the Chevalier de St. George at Bar, where he finds the prince in a drunken state. He lays his daring scheme before the prince and his advisers, meets the Duke of Berwick, and pays his respects at St. Germains. Meanwhile, Beatrix returns to court, and Lady Castlewood prepares for Frank's expected arrival, all while Esmond's secret plan unfolds.
Chapter 43
The Original of the Portrait Comes to England
The Prince, disguised as Lord Castlewood, arrives in England and stays at Lady Castlewood's home. His imprudent behavior, including seducing a servant's sweetheart, causes tension. Esmond and others struggle to control his reckless actions, while Lady Castlewood is disillusioned by his lack of virtue. Beatrix mocks the Prince, and Esmond grapples with his own doubts about the political scheme.
Chapter 44
We Entertain a Very Distinguished Guest at Kensington
The chapter details the tense atmosphere at the Castlewood household in Kensington as they prepare for a secret plan to present the Stuart Pretender (the Chevalier de St. George) to Queen Anne. Beatrix returns the diamonds Henry gave her, leading to a bitter confrontation with her mother, Lady Castlewood. Meanwhile, the political intrigue intensifies with the arrival of Doctor A. and the Bishop of Rochester, who orchestrate the Prince's presentation at court. The narrative also reflects on the selfish and treacherous nature of the great political figures of the time, including Marlborough, Harley, and St. John.
Chapter 45
XI: Our Guest Quits Us as Not Being Hospitable Enough
The Prince, angered by Beatrix's absence, accuses the household of inhospitality and jealousy. He demands her return or he will leave. Beatrix is sent away to Castlewood for her safety. The political crisis deepens as the Queen's health wavers and the Lord Treasurer falls. The Prince, after a drunken night, copies state papers himself to protect Esmond. Tensions rise as the Prince's infatuation with Beatrix becomes a liability.
Chapter 46
A Great Scheme, and Who Balked It
Henry Esmond and his fellow conspirators prepare to strike for the Pretender as Queen Anne lies dying, but their plot unravels when the Prince disappears, lured away by Beatrix Esmond. Despite having military support and a majority in the Council, the absence of their leader allows the Whig dukes Argyle and Somerset to seize control, and the Jacobite scheme collapses.
Chapter 47
XIII: August 1st, 1714
On the night of Queen Anne's death, Henry Esmond and Frank Castlewood race to Castlewood to prevent Beatrix from eloping with the Prince of Wales (James Stuart). They arrive to find the Prince asleep in Beatrix's chambers, and Esmond confronts him, burning the patents and titles granted by the Stuart line, renouncing his allegiance to the Pretender, and breaking his sword in a dramatic act of defiance.
Chapter 48
Endnotes
The endnotes provide editorial commentary and clarifications on the main text of Henry Esmond's memoirs, including remarks on Colonel Esmond's character and death, Lady Castlewood's motives, the use of royal titles, and historical details about titles, family ambitions, and military campaigns.
