The Painted Veil · Chapter
LIX explained
Kitty continues her work at the convent despite feeling unwell in the early mornings.
What happens
Kitty continues her work at the convent despite feeling unwell in the early mornings. The nuns, including Sister St. Joseph and the Mother Superior, show heightened interest and tenderness toward her upon learning she is pregnant. The Mother Superior speaks warmly of Walter, calling him a saint, and encourages Kitty to love him. Kitty reflects on her desire for Walter to forgive her, not for her own sake but for his peace of mind, though she struggles to find a way to achieve this.
Themes in this chapter
Moral Awakening and Redemption
Kitty's desire for Walter to forgive her, not for her own sake but for his peace of mind, reflects her moral growth and concern for his redemption from resentment.
Suffering and Growth
Kitty's pregnancy and her reflections on Walter's suffering highlight the theme of growth through pain, as she seeks to alleviate his torment.
Characters to notice
- Kitty Fane
Kitty is pregnant and continues her work at the convent, feeling unwell but maintaining her spirit. She is touched by the nuns' interest and reflects on her desire for Walter's forgiveness.
- Sister St. Joseph
Sister St. Joseph is excited about Kitty's pregnancy, sharing stories of her sister-in-law's confinements and discussing religious matters with Kitty.
- Mother Superior
The Mother Superior shows maternal tenderness toward Kitty, praising Walter as a saint and encouraging Kitty to love him. She sits with Kitty in the evenings and speaks warmly of her.
- Walter Fane
Walter is mentioned by the Mother Superior as being delighted by Kitty's pregnancy and as a saintly figure. Kitty reflects on his need for forgiveness and his inner turmoil.
Key passages
“She wanted him to forgive her, not for her sake any more, but for his own; for she felt that this alone could give him peace of mind.”
Kitty now seeks Walter's forgiveness primarily for his own peace of mind, not for her own benefit.
This shows Kitty's shift from self-interest to genuine concern for Walter's emotional well-being.
“Was it not pitiful that men, tarrying so short a space in a world where there was so much pain, should thus torture themselves?”
Kitty reflects on the tragedy of humans causing themselves additional suffering in a life already full of pain.
This highlights Kitty's growing philosophical perspective on human folly and suffering.