The Way of All Flesh · Chapter
LX explained
Ernest, after studying Dean Alford's notes on the Resurrection and finding them unconvincing, struggles with his faith and his attraction to Miss Snow.
What happens
Ernest, after studying Dean Alford's notes on the Resurrection and finding them unconvincing, struggles with his faith and his attraction to Miss Snow. He visits her room but is interrupted by Towneley, who humiliates him. In his confusion, Ernest then attempts to see Miss Maitland, leading to a disastrous encounter that results in his arrest by police.
Themes in this chapter
Religion and Doubt
Ernest's study of Dean Alford's notes leads him to question the Resurrection, marking a crisis of faith.
Hypocrisy of Victorian Morality
Ernest's attempt to convert Miss Snow while being tempted by her, and his subsequent arrest, highlight the hypocrisy of Victorian moral standards.
Self-Discovery and Authenticity
Ernest's internal conflict and his rejection of the Bible symbolize his struggle to find his true self amid societal and religious pressures.
Characters to notice
- Ernest Pontifex
Studies Dean Alford's notes, loses faith, visits Miss Snow, is humiliated by Towneley, then attempts to see Miss Maitland and is arrested.
- Mrs. Jupp
Informs Ernest that Miss Snow would like to see him; later involved in the incident leading to Ernest's arrest.
- Miss Snow
A prostitute living in Mrs. Jupp's house; Ernest visits her but is interrupted by Towneley.
- Towneley
Bursts into Miss Snow's room, finds Ernest there, and laughs heartily after Ernest leaves.
- Miss Maitland
Another prostitute in the house; Ernest attempts to see her after being humiliated by Towneley.
- Eliza Allaby
Mentioned as the aunt who gave Ernest the Bible he kicks into a corner.
Key passages
“He did not care which result he should arrive at, but he was resolved that he would reach one or the other.”
Ernest was indifferent to the outcome but determined to reach a definite conclusion.
Reflects Ernest's determination to resolve his religious doubts.
“It fell over on to the floor, and he kicked it into a corner. It was the Bible given him at his christening by his affectionate aunt, Elizabeth Allaby.”
Ernest knocked the Bible to the floor and kicked it aside; it was a gift from his aunt.
Symbolizes Ernest's rejection of his Christian upbringing.