The Turn of the Screw · Chapter
Chapter XIV explained
On a Sunday morning walk to church, Miles confronts the governess about his return to school, revealing his desire for independence and 'more life.' Their tense conversation escalates as Miles hints at his awareness of the governess's fears
What happens
On a Sunday morning walk to church, Miles confronts the governess about his return to school, revealing his desire for independence and 'more life.' Their tense conversation escalates as Miles hints at his awareness of the governess's fears and his own power, culminating in his declaration that he will make his uncle come down to Bly.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Corruption
Miles's charming demeanor masks a calculated challenge to the governess's authority, blurring the line between childhood innocence and corrupt knowledge.
Power and Control
The governess feels her control slipping as Miles asserts his desire for independence and threatens to involve his uncle.
Isolation and Entrapment
The governess feels trapped in her role and in the escalating tension with Miles, symbolized by the churchyard setting among graves.
Characters to notice
- The Governess
Feels like a gaoler, struggles to maintain control as Miles challenges her authority and questions her thoughts.
- Miles
Assertively demands to return to school, displays precocious awareness of the governess's fears, and threatens to summon his uncle.
- Mrs. Grose
Walks ahead with Flora to church, present but not directly involved in the conversation.
- Flora
Walks ahead with Mrs. Grose, mentioned as a point of comparison by Miles.
- The Master
Referenced by Miles as the uncle who might be made to come down to Bly.
Key passages
“I was like a gaoler with an eye to possible surprises and escapes.”
The governess feels she is guarding Miles like a prisoner, watching for any attempt to rebel or flee.
Reveals her perception of her role as oppressive and her fear of losing control.
“I want my own sort!”
Miles declares his desire to be with other boys his age, not just with the governess and Flora.
Highlights his yearning for independence and peer companionship.
“Does my uncle think what you think?”
Miles asks if his uncle shares the governess's suspicions or judgments about his behavior.
Shows Miles's awareness of the governess's hidden fears and his attempt to leverage his uncle's authority.