The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
Carry Brattle explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Fenwick travels alone to Pycroft Common to find Carry Brattle, who is living in a cottage with old Mrs. Burrows. He confronts her about her unmarried state and her connection to the murder suspect, Jack the Grinder. Carry expresses deep despair and self-loathing, but Fenwick offers compassion and a promise of help, urging her to pray and to contact him if she leaves. On his return, he meets Sam Brattle but cannot persuade him to ride home.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and the Fallen Woman
Fenwick's visit to Carry embodies the theme of offering redemption to a 'fallen woman' despite societal condemnation.
Justice and Prejudice
Carry's fear of the police and her brother Sam's unjust suspicion highlight prejudice against the poor and the accused.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Fenwick
Travels alone to Pycroft Common to find Carry Brattle; shows compassion and offers help.
- Carry Brattle
Found living in a cottage with old Mrs. Burrows; admits she is unmarried and expresses deep despair.
- Sam Brattle
Encountered by Fenwick on the road near Lavington; declines a ride but says he is going to the mill.
- Jack the Grinder
Accused of murder; identified as the son of Mrs. Burrows and connected to Carry.
- Mrs. Brattle
Mentioned as the mother of Carry and Sam; Fenwick hopes her heart may change toward Carry.
Key passages
“Oh, Mr. Fenwick, I ain't fit for the likes of you to touch.”
Carry feels unworthy of Fenwick's kindness due to her fallen state.
Reflects her deep shame and self-loathing.
“I have just got one thing to do, and that's all. What thing is that, Carry? To die and have done with it.”
Carry expresses suicidal despair, seeing no hope for her future.
Highlights the theme of redemption and fallen women.
“Sam hadn't no more to do with it than you had, Mr. Fenwick.”
Carry vehemently defends her brother Sam against accusations of murder.
Shows her loyalty and the theme of justice and prejudice.