# LII explained — The Old Curiosity Shop

> Chapter companion for The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

The schoolmaster reveals to Nell and her grandfather that he has secured for them the position of church-keeper in a peaceful village, providing them with a home in an ancient house. The bachelor, a kind local figure, welcomes them and helps furnish the dwelling. Nell and her grandfather settle into their new life, finding comfort and community, while Nell reflects on her past and the tranquility of her new surroundings.

## Themes in this chapter

### Death and Transcendence

Nell contemplates the ancient house as a place to live and learn to die in, and the narrative reflects on decay and the passage of time, yet finds peace and transcendence in the quiet setting.

### Family and Community

The schoolmaster, the bachelor, and the villagers come together to support Nell and her grandfather, creating a new family-like bond and a sense of belonging.

### Sacrifice and Devotion

The schoolmaster sacrifices his own comfort by taking the smaller house, and the bachelor devotes his time and resources to help the newcomers, demonstrating selfless devotion.

## Character check-ins

### Nell Trent

Nell is deeply moved by the beauty of the ancient house and church, feeling a solemn peace. She is grateful for the schoolmaster's kindness and looks forward to a quiet life.

### The Schoolmaster

The schoolmaster arranges for Nell and her grandfather to become church-keepers, giving them the old house. He is cheerful and generous, choosing the smaller dwelling for himself.

### Mr. Trent

The grandfather is present and happy, assisting with the preparations and enjoying the new home.

### The Bachelor

The bachelor, a little old gentleman and the clergyman's friend, welcomes the newcomers, helps furnish their home, and shows great kindness and activity.

## Key lines

> I would rather see her dancing on the green at nights... than have her sitting in the shadow of our mouldering arches.

The bachelor expresses a preference for Nell to enjoy lively outdoor activities rather than be confined in the gloomy old church.

_This reflects the theme of innocence and the desire to protect Nell from melancholy._

> A place to live, and learn to live, and gather health of mind and body in... for this old house is yours.

The schoolmaster describes the house as a nurturing environment for physical and mental well-being, and gives it to Nell.

_This highlights the theme of renewal and the promise of a new life._

> A quiet, happy place—a place to live and learn to die in!

Nell sees the house as a peaceful sanctuary where one can both live fully and prepare for death.

_This underscores the theme of death and transcendence, and Nell's acceptance of mortality._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_old_curiosity_shop_se/chapters/lii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_old_curiosity_shop_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_old_curiosity_shop_se/chapters