The Magician · Chapter
XII explained
Margaret's health improves but she becomes increasingly agitated as her divorce trial approaches.
What happens
Margaret's health improves but she becomes increasingly agitated as her divorce trial approaches. She reveals to Arthur the extent of Haddo's psychological and possibly supernatural hold over her, confessing that she both loves and hates him. After she returns to Haddo, Susie discovers her gone and informs Arthur. They discuss the possibility of Haddo's occult powers, and Susie decides to consult Dr. Porhoët in Paris.
Themes in this chapter
Obsession and Control
Haddo's psychological and possibly supernatural hold over Margaret is central; he manipulates her actions and emotions even from a distance.
Occult and Supernatural
Margaret describes Haddo's powers, including a vision of a sabbath and his influence at Monte Carlo; Susie and Arthur debate the reality of magic.
Love and Sacrifice
Margaret's conflicted love for Haddo despite her hatred; Arthur's helpless devotion to Margaret.
Characters to notice
- Margaret Dauncey
Recovering physically but emotionally tormented; confesses her conflicted feelings and Haddo's influence over her.
- Arthur Burdon
Confronts Haddo about the divorce; struggles with Margaret's revelations and his own skepticism.
- Susie Boyd
Cares for Margaret, discovers her flight, and decides to seek Dr. Porhoët's help.
- Oliver Haddo
Visits Arthur to threaten a counter-petition; later sends a taunting message after Margaret returns to him.
- Dr. Porhoët
Mentioned as a potential source of occult knowledge; Susie plans to consult him.
Key passages
“I hate him. He fills me with repulsion. And yet I do not know what there is in my blood that draws me to him against my will. My flesh cries out for him.”
Margaret confesses her simultaneous hatred and irresistible attraction to Haddo.
Reveals the depth of Haddo's control over her.
“I think the odd trick is mine.”
Haddo sends a gloating message to Arthur after Margaret returns to him.
Shows Haddo's vindictive and taunting nature.
“The only chance is to fight him with his own weapons.”
Susie suggests using occult knowledge to counter Haddo's influence.
Leads to the decision to consult Dr. Porhoët.