The Tenant of Wildfell Hall · Chapter
XXXVII explained
Walter Hargrave confesses his long-standing love for Helen Huntingdon, arguing that she is miserable and should allow herself to love him.
What happens
Walter Hargrave confesses his long-standing love for Helen Huntingdon, arguing that she is miserable and should allow herself to love him. Helen rebuffs him firmly, citing her religious faith, her duty to her son, and her concern for his family's reputation. Despite his persistent advances, she maintains her resolve and takes measures to avoid him, including curtailing visits to the Grove and taking Rachel on walks for protection.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Independence
Helen asserts her autonomy by rejecting Walter's advances and controlling her own movements to avoid his pursuit.
Hypocrisy and Social Judgment
Walter's claim of 'disinterested affection' is undercut by his selfish persistence and disregard for Helen's stated wishes.
Redemption and Moral Reform
Helen's steadfast adherence to her religious and moral principles contrasts with Walter's attempts to rationalize a forbidden relationship.
Characters to notice
- Helen Huntingdon
Firmly rejects Walter Hargrave's advances, citing her faith, duty to her son, and concern for others' peace of mind.
- Walter Hargrave
Confesses his love for Helen, argues passionately for her affection, and continues to pursue her despite repeated rebuffs.
- Esther Hargrave
Visits with her brother, plays with little Arthur, and is perplexed by the tension between Helen and Walter.
- Little Arthur
Plays with Esther Hargrave in the garden and reenters the room during Helen and Walter's tense conversation.
- Rachel
Watches for Walter Hargrave's movements from the nursery window and accompanies Helen on walks to prevent unwanted encounters.
Key passages
“For upwards of three years I have endured a perfect martyrdom. From the anguish of suppressed emotions, intense and fruitless longings, silent sorrow, crushed hopes, and trampled affections, I have suffered more than I can tell, or you imagine—and you were the cause of it, and not altogether the innocent cause.”
Walter claims he has suffered for three years because of his love for Helen, and blames her for his pain.
Walter's dramatic declaration of suffering is a key part of his appeal to Helen's sympathy.
“I have a son, Mr. Hargrave, and you have a mother.”
Helen reminds Walter that their actions would affect their families, not just themselves.
Helen uses familial duty as a reason to reject Walter's proposal of secrecy.
“If you have, never mention this subject again. You cannot recur to”
Helen tells Walter that if he truly loves her, he will never speak of his feelings again.
Helen sets a condition for any future interaction, demanding silence on the matter.