The Perpetual Curate · Chapter
XVIII explained
Frank and the Squire spend the afternoon in the library discussing Gerald's decision to convert to Catholicism, while the Squire also reveals his anxieties about his eldest son Jack's reckless behavior and the future of the estate.
What happens
Frank and the Squire spend the afternoon in the library discussing Gerald's decision to convert to Catholicism, while the Squire also reveals his anxieties about his eldest son Jack's reckless behavior and the future of the estate. The chapter explores the Squire's disappointment in his sons and his worries about the younger children, ending with a somber late-night conversation that leaves Frank troubled by the possibility of Jack inheriting.
Themes in this chapter
Family Duty and Loyalty
The Squire's distress over Gerald's conversion and Jack's behavior underscores the tension between individual choices and family obligations.
Religious Conflict and Clerical Life
Gerald's decision to convert to Catholicism is the central conflict, pitting personal conviction against family and clerical expectations.
Hypocrisy and Moral Judgment
The Squire blames Gerald's mother's side for his sons' failings, revealing a tendency to judge while avoiding self-reflection.
Characters to notice
- Frank Wentworth
Engages in arguments with Gerald and listens to his father's complaints; feels the weight of family troubles and worries about the future.
- Gerald Wentworth
Listens patiently to his father and brother's arguments about his conversion, but remains resolute in his decision.
- Mr. Wodehouse
Referred to as the Squire; deeply troubled by Gerald's conversion and Jack's behavior, showing signs of age and feebleness.
- Jack Wentworth
Mentioned as the prodigal heir whose reckless spending and lifestyle cause the Squire great anxiety about the estate's future.
- Louisa
Briefly mentioned as an interruption to the Curate's arguments, similar to the Squire.
Key passages
“Very little came, as was natural, of the talk in the library, to which the entire afternoon was devoted.”
The lengthy discussion in the library yielded almost no results.
Highlights the futility of the family's attempts to dissuade Gerald.
“If I had made myself disagreeable... it might have been comprehensible. But I never said a syllable on the subject.”
The Squire cannot understand Gerald's conversion because he never opposed his church practices.
Shows the Squire's bewilderment at Gerald's decision.
“I hope he won't disgrace the family any more than he has done, in my time, Frank.”
The Squire fears Jack will bring further shame upon the family.
Reveals the Squire's ongoing anxiety about his eldest son.
“It's your business to convince a man when he's wrong. We'll try Gerald once more, and perhaps something may come of it.”
The Squire urges Frank to find new arguments to change Gerald's mind.
Demonstrates the Squire's desperation and reliance on Frank.