The Magnificent Ambersons · Chapter
Chapter XVI explained
George returns home from college to discover his grandfather has begun building five new houses on the family property, a decision he finds degrading and upsetting.
What happens
George returns home from college to discover his grandfather has begun building five new houses on the family property, a decision he finds degrading and upsetting. He argues with his uncle about it, while later at home he teases Aunt Fanny about Eugene Morgan, causing her to burst into tears.
Themes in this chapter
Generational Conflict
George's outrage at his grandfather's building project highlights the clash between old and new values regarding property and progress.
Illusion of Permanence
The destruction of the lawn for new houses symbolizes the impermanence of the Amberson family's former status and stability.
Gossip and Reputation
George's teasing of Aunt Fanny about Eugene Morgan touches on the social dynamics and sensitivities around romantic prospects and reputation.
Characters to notice
- George Amberson Minafer
Returns from college, is outraged by his grandfather's building project, and later teases Aunt Fanny about Eugene Morgan.
- Isabel Amberson
Returns home with George, tired from the journey, and briefly summarizes commencement to Fanny.
- Fanny Minafer
Appears desolate and sensitive; bursts into tears when George teases her about Eugene Morgan.
- Eugene Morgan
Mentioned as having traveled back with George and Isabel; George teases Fanny about him.
- Major Amberson
Decides to build houses on his property, causing conflict with George; appears in conversation with his son.
- Lucy Morgan
Mentioned as having traveled home with George and being with him in his runabout.
Key passages
“Upset! Oh, my Lord, I should think I would be upset! He's in his second childhood. What did you let him do it for, in the name of—”
George expresses extreme distress and anger at his grandfather's decision to build houses, accusing him of being senile.
George's reaction to the building project reveals his sense of entitlement and his view of the family's social standing.
“I was only teasing. I didn't mean—”
George tries to backtrack after his joke about Eugene Morgan causes Aunt Fanny to cry.
This moment shows George's insensitivity and the fragile emotional state of Aunt Fanny.