# XXXII: After the Battle explained — The Hoosier Schoolmaster

> Chapter companion for The Hoosier Schoolmaster by Edward Eggleston.

## What happens

After Ralph's acquittal, the community's anger turns to lynch law, but Ralph saves Small from the mob twice. Small later forfeits bail and disappears, while Pete Jones and Bill go to prison. Hannah leaves the Means household, walks to Flat Creek, and reunites with her mother and Shocky. She secures a teaching position and reestablishes their home, waiting for Ralph to come.

## Themes in this chapter

### Morality and Justice

The chapter contrasts mob justice with legal proceedings, highlighting Ralph's moral stand against lynch law.

### Poverty and Charity

Hannah's determination to support her family and the kindness of the minister and Miss Nancy Sawyer in securing her a teaching position.

### Courage and Resilience

Hannah's brave journey to freedom and her willingness to work to rebuild her life.

## Character check-ins

### Ralph Hartsook

Saves Small from the mob twice, showing his opposition to lynch law.

### Hannah Thomson

Leaves the Means house, walks to Flat Creek, and reunites with her family.

### Shocky

Rejoices at Hannah's return, expressing faith that God wouldn't forget her.

### Bud Means

Bids Hannah goodbye with emotion, having been a true friend.

### Pete Jones

Sent to prison along with Bill for his role in the conspiracy.

### Dr. Small

Survives the mob's attempts, forfeits bail, and disappears from the county.

## Key lines

> Nothing can be more demoralizing in the long run than lynch law.

In the long term, mob justice corrupts society.

_The narrator's commentary on the dangers of lynch law._

> I’m free! I’m free!

I am no longer enslaved.

_Hannah's emotional outburst upon reuniting with her mother._

> I knowed God wouldn’t forget you, Hanner!

I knew God would not abandon you, Hannah.

_Shocky's faith in divine providence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hoosier_schoolmaster_se/chapters/xxxii-after-the-battle
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hoosier_schoolmaster_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hoosier_schoolmaster_se/chapters