The Titan · Chapter
The Fruits of Daring explained
Cowperwood's gas franchise scheme draws public scrutiny and legal challenges as conspiracy charges are filed against him.
What happens
Cowperwood's gas franchise scheme draws public scrutiny and legal challenges as conspiracy charges are filed against him. His past in Philadelphia, including a failure and penitentiary record, becomes public. Meanwhile, Norman Schryhart, a powerful Chicago figure, takes notice and attempts to co-opt Cowperwood's plan, but Cowperwood rebuffs his overture. Socially, the Cowperwoods face criticism from high society for their ostentatious display.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Power
Cowperwood's daring gas franchise scheme and Schryhart's attempt to co-opt it illustrate the relentless pursuit of financial and political dominance.
Corruption and Morality
Conspiracy and bribery charges against Cowperwood highlight the moral ambiguities of his methods and the public's reaction to his past.
Social Class and Ostracism
The Cowperwoods face social rejection from Chicago's elite due to their showy display and Cowperwood's tainted reputation.
Characters to notice
- Frank A. Cowperwood
Under legal attack for conspiracy in the gas franchise scheme; maintains public denial of involvement; dismisses Schryhart's overture.
- Aileen Cowperwood
Subject of social criticism for her gauche and showy manners at the Michigan Avenue house opening.
- Norman Schryhart
Takes interest in Cowperwood's gas scheme; attempts to take over the plan but is rebuffed.
- Anson Merrill
Comments on Cowperwood's rising notoriety in the newspapers; dismisses the Cowperwoods as climbers.
- Addison Cowperwood
Defends Cowperwood to Schryhart at the Calumet Club, noting his Philadelphia record.
- Henry De Soto Sippens
Named in the conspiracy suit as a pawn in Cowperwood's gas scheme.
Key passages
“I see,” said Anson Merrill to his wife, one morning at breakfast, “that this man Cowperwood is beginning to get his name in the papers.”
Anson Merrill notes Cowperwood's growing public visibility.
Merrill's remark signals Cowperwood's emergence as a notable figure in Chicago.
“Mr. Cowperwood begs me to say,” wrote Miss Antoinette Nowak, at his dictation, “that he finds himself very much pressed for time at present, but he would be glad to see Mr. Schryhart at his office at any time.”
Cowperwood declines Schryhart's invitation to visit, instead offering to receive him at his own office.
Cowperwood asserts his independence and refuses to be subordinate to Schryhart.
“The trouble with Mrs. Cowperwood,” observed Mrs. Simms, “is that she is too gauche. The whole thing was much too showy.”
Mrs. Simms criticizes Aileen's lack of social grace and the ostentation of her party.
High society's rejection of the Cowperwoods is rooted in their perceived vulgarity.