# XII explained — The Magician

> Chapter companion for The Magician by W. Somerset Maugham.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_magician_se/chapters/xii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_magician_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_magician_se/chapters