The Well of Loneliness · Chapter
XXXVIII explained
Stephen and Mary's relationship deteriorates as Mary becomes increasingly restless and unhappy in their isolated life at the house in Paris.
What happens
Stephen and Mary's relationship deteriorates as Mary becomes increasingly restless and unhappy in their isolated life at the house in Paris. Stephen, consumed by jealousy and fear, tries to control Mary's social interactions, leading to tension and arguments. Mary longs for a normal social life and a home, while Stephen's possessiveness and inability to trust drive them further apart.
Themes in this chapter
Isolation and Otherness
Mary and Stephen's relationship is marked by isolation from society, and Stephen's jealousy further isolates Mary from any social life.
Love and Sacrifice
Stephen's love for Mary becomes possessive and destructive, leading to sacrifice of Mary's happiness and their mutual peace.
Characters to notice
- Stephen Gordon
Grows increasingly jealous and possessive, trying to control Mary's social life and isolating her from others.
- Mary Llewellyn
Becomes restless and unhappy, longing for a home and social connections, feeling trapped by Stephen's jealousy.
- Valérie Seymour
Mentioned as a contrast to Stephen's possessiveness, representing a more open and accepting social circle.
Key passages
“She wanted a home, she wanted friends, she wanted to be like other people.”
Mary desired a normal life with a home and social connections, feeling the weight of their abnormal existence.
Highlights Mary's longing for conventional happiness and the strain of their hidden relationship.
“Stephen's jealousy was a madness that grew with every hour.”
Stephen's jealousy intensified uncontrollably, dominating her thoughts and actions.
Illustrates Stephen's deteriorating mental state and the destructive nature of her possessiveness.