# XVII explained — The Tenant of Wildfell Hall

> Chapter companion for The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë.

## What happens

Helen reflects on her growing attachment to Arthur Huntingdon, defending his character against her aunt's warnings. After a tense social evening where Huntingdon rescues her from the unwanted advances of Mr. Wilmot, her aunt confronts her about his suitability, leading to a heated debate about his moral character and Helen's belief that she can reform him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Gender Roles and Marriage

Helen's belief that she can reform Huntingdon reflects the Victorian ideal of woman as moral guardian within marriage.

### Female Agency and Independence

Helen asserts her own judgment against her aunt's authority, choosing to risk her happiness for the chance to save Huntingdon.

### Hypocrisy and Social Judgment

Aunt Maxwell's condemnation of Huntingdon contrasts with society's tolerance of his behavior, highlighting double standards.

## Character check-ins

### Helen Huntingdon

Defends Huntingdon against her aunt's accusations, believing she can reform him.

### Arthur Huntingdon

Rescues Helen from Mr. Wilmot and professes his adoration for her.

### Aunt Maxwell

Interrupts Huntingdon's declaration and later lectures Helen about his character.

### Mr. Wilmot

Makes unwelcome advances toward Helen at the party.

## Key lines

> I have such confidence in him, aunt, notwithstanding all you say, that I would willingly risk my happiness for the chance of securing his.

Helen declares she is willing to gamble her own happiness on the hope of reforming Huntingdon.

_This reveals Helen's idealistic and self-sacrificing view of love and marriage._

> If I hate the sins, I love the sinner, and would do much for his salvation.

Helen distinguishes between Huntingdon's faults and his essential nature, vowing to save him.

_Illustrates the theme of redemption and moral reform central to Helen's character._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tenant_of_wildfell_hall_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tenant_of_wildfell_hall_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tenant_of_wildfell_hall_se/chapters