The Old Curiosity Shop · Chapter
LIV explained
The bachelor shares local legends and histories of the old church with Nell, emphasizing the importance of preserving tales of goodness and virtue.
What happens
The bachelor shares local legends and histories of the old church with Nell, emphasizing the importance of preserving tales of goodness and virtue. Nell then meets the schoolmaster in the churchyard, where they discuss death and remembrance, finding comfort in the belief that good deeds live on. Later, Nell and her grandfather begin tending the graves, finding peace in their new life, though the grandfather shows signs of unease when Nell focuses on the graves of children.
Themes in this chapter
Death and Transcendence
The chapter explores how the dead are remembered through good deeds and the belief that no innocent or good thing dies and is forgotten, as discussed between Nell and the schoolmaster.
Innocence vs. Corruption
Nell's pure and grateful nature contrasts with the harsh realities of the world; the church is portrayed as a sanctuary from sin and sorrow.
Sacrifice and Devotion
Nell's devotion to her grandfather is evident as she comforts him and works alongside him in the churchyard, while the bachelor's devotion to preserving virtuous legends highlights selfless dedication.
Characters to notice
- Nell Trent
Learns from the bachelor about the church's history and legends; finds solace in the churchyard; discusses death and remembrance with the schoolmaster; begins tending graves with her grandfather.
- The Schoolmaster
Sits reading on a grave in the churchyard; comforts Nell with a discussion about how the dead are remembered through good deeds; leaves when the church clock strikes the hour of school.
- Mr. Trent
Approaches Nell and the schoolmaster; expresses relief at finding a safe place; begins tending graves with Nell but shows unease when she focuses on children's graves.
- The Bachelor
Shares local legends and histories of the old church with Nell; later observes Nell and her grandfather tending graves from a stile.
- David
The sexton; converses with a deaf old man about Becky Morgan's supposed recovery; watches the deaf man digging a grave.
Key passages
“There is nothing... no, nothing innocent or good, that dies, and is forgotten. Let us hold to that faith, or none.”
The schoolmaster tells Nell that every good and innocent thing lives on through the actions of those who loved it, and that this belief is essential.
This passage encapsulates the chapter's theme of death and transcendence, offering comfort to Nell.
“We will forget them; or, if we ever call them to mind, it shall be only as some uneasy dream that has passed away.”
Nell tells her grandfather they should remember their past hardships only as a distant, unpleasant dream.
Shows Nell's desire to move forward and find peace in their new life.