The Maltese Falcon · Chapter
XX: If They Hang You explained
Sam Spade confronts Brigid O'Shaughnessy about her murder of Miles Archer, explaining his reasons for turning her over to the police despite his feelings for her.
What happens
Sam Spade confronts Brigid O'Shaughnessy about her murder of Miles Archer, explaining his reasons for turning her over to the police despite his feelings for her. He enumerates a code of ethics and practical considerations that compel him to act, ultimately handing her to Lieutenant Dundy and Sergeant Polhaus. The chapter ends with Effie Perine's emotional reaction and Iva Archer's arrival.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Loyalty
Spade's loyalty to his partner and profession outweighs his personal feelings for Brigid, leading him to betray her trust.
Moral Ambiguity
Spade's decision is based on a mix of ethical principles, self-preservation, and professional duty, not clear-cut morality.
Deception and Duplicity
Brigid's lies about her motives and the murder are exposed, and Spade acknowledges his own reputation for crookedness.
Characters to notice
- Sam Spade
Confronts Brigid, explains his moral and professional code, and turns her over to the police.
- Brigid O'Shaughnessy
Pleads with Spade, confesses to killing Miles Archer, and is ultimately handed to the police.
- Effie Perine
Reacts with shock and disgust after learning Spade turned Brigid in, refusing his touch.
- Tom Polhaus
Arrives with Dundy to arrest Gutman and Cairo; reports Gutman's death by Wilmer.
- Lieutenant Dundy
Arrives with Polhaus to make arrests; Spade mocks his disappointment.
- Iva Archer
Arrives at Spade's office at the end of the chapter.
Key passages
“I won't play the sap for you.”
Spade refuses to be manipulated or taken advantage of by Brigid.
Spade asserts his independence and refusal to be a fool for love.
“When a man's partner is killed he's supposed to do something about it.”
Spade explains that professional duty demands he avenge his partner's murder.
Spade articulates his personal code of honor.
“I hope to Christ they don't hang you, precious, by that sweet neck.”
Spade expresses a tender but grim wish for Brigid's fate despite turning her in.
Highlights the conflict between his feelings and his actions.