The Way of All Flesh · Chapter
II explained
This chapter details the early life and rise of George Pontifex, the son of old Mr.
What happens
This chapter details the early life and rise of George Pontifex, the son of old Mr. and Mrs. Pontifex. Born unexpectedly to his mother in her old age, George shows early intelligence and ambition. At fifteen, he impresses his uncle Mr. Fairlie, a publisher, who takes him into his business in London. George quickly adapts to city life, excels at his work, and learns Latin and Greek, becoming a confident and worldly young man. He is eventually taken into partnership by his uncle, marries a woman with a dowry, and becomes wealthy. His wife dies in 1805 after giving birth to their youngest child, Alethea.
Themes in this chapter
Money and Social Class
George Pontifex's rise from a village boy to a wealthy London publisher illustrates the pursuit of social mobility and the importance of financial success.
Heredity and Environment
The chapter explores how George inherits traits from his obstinate mother and how his environment in London shapes his character and success.
Characters to notice
- George Pontifex
The central figure of the chapter; his birth, childhood, and early career are described, showing his intelligence, ambition, and rise in the publishing business.
- Mrs. Pontifex
George's mother, who initially refuses to believe she is pregnant, but later shows deep though undemonstrative affection for her son.
- Mr. Fairlie
George's uncle by marriage, a publisher who recognizes George's potential and takes him into his business.
- Alethea Pontifex
George's youngest child, born in 1805 when her mother dies.
Key passages
“Before his visit was over Mr. Fairlie proposed to the lad’s father and mother that he should put him into his own business, at the same time promising that if the boy did well he should not want someone to bring him forward.”
Mr. Fairlie offered to take George into his publishing business, promising to support his advancement if he performed well.
This marks the turning point in George's life, setting him on a path to wealth and status.
“His father, as I have said, wondered at him and let him alone. His son had fairly distanced him, and in an inarticulate way the father knew it perfectly well.”
Old Mr. Pontifex was in awe of his son and recognized that George had surpassed him in worldly success.
Highlights the theme of generational change and the shifting dynamics between father and son.