The Pit · Chapter
Chapter V explained
Laura Dearborn announces her engagement to Curtis Jadwin, despite earlier speculation that she would marry Sheldon Corthell.
What happens
Laura Dearborn announces her engagement to Curtis Jadwin, despite earlier speculation that she would marry Sheldon Corthell. The chapter explores Laura's ambivalence about marriage, her doubts about her feelings for Jadwin, and the quiet wedding that takes place on a rainy June day. Meanwhile, Cressler expresses concern over Jadwin's increasing speculation in the wheat market.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
Laura's ambivalence about marrying Jadwin and her reflections on the nature of love versus societal expectations.
Speculation and Greed
Cressler's concern over Jadwin's increasing involvement in wheat speculation and its potential consequences.
Gender Roles and Independence
Laura's internal conflict between her desire for independence and the societal pressure to marry.
Characters to notice
- Laura Dearborn
Announces her engagement to Curtis Jadwin, expresses doubts about her feelings and whether she truly loves him.
- Curtis Jadwin
Engaged to Laura, deeply in love with her, continues his speculative activities in the wheat market.
- Mrs. Cressler
Discusses Laura's engagement and marriage, expresses relief that Laura is marrying Jadwin rather than Corthell.
- Mr. Cressler
Worries about Jadwin's speculation, mentions Jadwin's recent profits and his association with Gretry.
- Page Dearborn
Present at the wedding, prays in the church while waiting for the ceremony to begin.
- Aunt Wess
Attends the wedding, fidgets and counts pews while waiting.
Key passages
“Laura wouldn’t have him. Of course they’re not made for each other. But I thought that Corthell would have made her happy. But she won’t ever marry ‘ J. ’ He asked her to; she didn’t tell me, but I know he did. And she’s refused him flatly. She won’t marry anybody, she says.”
Mrs. Cressler reflects that Laura refused both Corthell and Jadwin, insisting she would never marry.
Mrs. Cressler's earlier belief that Laura would remain single.
“I’m to be married in July, Mrs. Cressler.”
Laura announces her engagement to Jadwin, surprising Mrs. Cressler.
Laura reveals her marriage plans.
“I suppose I care as much for Mr. Jadwin as I ever will care for any man. I suppose I must be cold and unemotional.”
Laura admits she may not feel passionate love for Jadwin but believes she cares for him as much as she is capable.
Laura's self-doubt about her emotional capacity for love.