The Tenant of Wildfell Hall · Chapter
XXVII explained
Helen confronts Arthur about his flirtatious behavior with Lady Lowborough and his drinking.
What happens
Helen confronts Arthur about his flirtatious behavior with Lady Lowborough and his drinking. Arthur defends himself with double standards about male and female fidelity. Later, Annabella Wilmot taunts Helen about the incident, claiming she keeps her own husband in check. Helen struggles to maintain composure and her moral stance.
Themes in this chapter
Gender Roles and Marriage
Arthur invokes a double standard, claiming women are naturally constant while men need more licence, reflecting Victorian gender expectations.
Alcoholism and Dissipation
Helen explicitly condemns Arthur's drinking as a habit that may disgust her, linking it to his moral failings.
Hypocrisy and Social Judgment
Annabella's smugness about controlling her husband contrasts with her own flirtatious behavior, exposing social hypocrisy.
Characters to notice
- Helen Huntingdon
Confronts Arthur about his infidelity and drinking; tries to maintain calm and moral authority.
- Arthur Huntingdon
Defends his behavior with double standards; promises reform but shows sulkiness and lack of true contrition.
- Annabella Wilmot
Taunts Helen about the incident; boasts of controlling her husband, Lord Lowborough.
- Lord Lowborough
Mentioned as being more cheerful and cordial after Arthur's behavior shifts; Annabella claims he worships her.
Key passages
“It is a woman’s nature to be constant—to love one and one only, blindly, tenderly, and forever—bless them, dear creatures! and you above them all; but you must have some commiseration for us, Helen; you must give us a little more licence.”
Arthur argues that women are naturally faithful, so men should be forgiven for their wandering affections.
Highlights the gendered double standard in marriage.
“You may think it all very fine, Mr. Huntingdon, to amuse yourself with rousing my jealousy; but take care you don’t rouse my hate instead.”
Helen warns Arthur that his games could destroy her love entirely.
Shows Helen's growing resolve and the fragility of their relationship.
“I never cry for effect; nor can I conceive how anyone can.”
Helen dismisses the idea of using tears manipulatively.
Contrasts Helen's sincerity with Annabella's calculated behavior.