The Tunnel · Chapter
XXXII explained
Miriam visits Mr.
What happens
Miriam visits Mr. Taunton at his rooms, where he discusses his entanglement with Miss Dear. He reveals that his charitable visits were misinterpreted, leading to a pledge of marriage. Miriam observes his anxiety and reflects on gender roles, strength, and the burdens placed on women.
Themes in this chapter
Gender Roles and Patriarchy
Miriam reflects on the unequal burdens placed on women versus men, noting that men without worldly props are weaker than women, and critiques the expectation that women handle 'stuffy nerve-racking' domestic and care work.
Female Consciousness and Autonomy
Miriam asserts her own intellectual value ('I've got twice the brain power you have') and resists being drawn into a caretaking role for Miss Dear, asserting her autonomy.
Characters to notice
- Miriam
Visits Mr. Taunton, observes his character, and reflects on gender dynamics and her own reluctance to become involved in Miss Dear's affairs.
- Mr. Taunton
A clergyman who is anxious and burdened by his pledge to Miss Dear; seeks Miriam's advice and reveals his frustration with the situation.
- Miss Dear
Discussed at length; her health and dependence on Mr. Taunton are central to the conversation, though she does not appear in person.
Key passages
“Women have no pity on women … they know how strong women are; a sick man is more helpless and pitiful than a sick woman; almost as helpless as a child.”
Miriam observes that women understand each other's strength, and that a sick man is more pitiable than a sick woman.
Reflects Miriam's internal critique of gender-based assumptions about strength and vulnerability.
“I’ve got twice the brain power you have. You are something of a scholar; but there is a way in which my time is more valuable than yours.”
Miriam internally asserts her intellectual superiority and the value of her time over Mr. Taunton's.
Highlights Miriam's frustration with gendered expectations and her own sense of worth.