# A New Pupil explained — The Portent

> Chapter companion for The Portent by George MacDonald.

## What happens

Lady Alice becomes Duncan's pupil, learning spelling and other subjects. Their association deepens, but Lady Hilton and Lady Lucy's interference disrupts their lessons, leading to Lady Alice's withdrawal from the schoolroom.

## Themes in this chapter

### Isolation and Connection

Lady Alice's isolation is broken by her connection with Duncan, but external forces threaten this bond.

### The Power of Will and Desire

Duncan's will to resist temptation and Lady Alice's determination to learn are central.

## Character check-ins

### Duncan Campbell

Teaches Lady Alice, observes her progress, and struggles with his feelings.

### Lady Alice

Becomes a pupil, shows improvement, but is interrupted by Lady Hilton.

### Lady Lucy

Watches Duncan and Lady Alice with suspicion.

### Lady Hilton

Interrupts lessons and calls Lady Alice away.

## Key lines

> Mr. Campbell, I cannot spell. How am I to learn?

Lady Alice admits her deficiency and asks for guidance.

_Shows her willingness to learn and trust in Duncan._

> That woman will make an idiot of me again!

Lady Alice expresses frustration with Lady Hilton's interference.

_Reveals the conflict between her desire for education and external control._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se/chapters/xi-a-new-pupil
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_portent_se/chapters