The Woodlanders · Chapter
IV explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Melbury prepares for Grace's return from school, ensuring everything is presentable. He sends Giles Winterborne to meet her in Sherton, hoping to encourage their union. The chapter describes the Melbury homestead and the daily life of the villagers, including Grammer Oliver and the workmen. Melbury receives a letter from Grace announcing her arrival, and he invites Giles to join him in driving home together.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Ambition
Melbury's careful preparations for Grace's return, including polishing the gig and blacking the horse's hoofs, reveal his anxiety about social standing and his desire to impress his educated daughter.
Tradition vs. Modernity
Grace's return from a fashionable school contrasts with the rustic life of Hintock, highlighting the tension between traditional rural values and modern education.
Sacrifice and Duty
Melbury feels duty-bound to encourage Giles as a suitor for Grace, despite his own misgivings, because of his obligation to Giles's father.
Characters to notice
- Giles Winterborne
Prepares to go to Sherton market with apple-trees; Melbury asks him to meet Grace and drive home together.
- George Melbury
Anxious about Grace's return; polishes the gig and harness, and invites Giles to join him in meeting Grace.
- Grace Melbury
Expected home from school; sends a letter announcing her arrival for today.
- Grammer Oliver
The Melburys' servant; brings breakfast to the workmen and comments on Melbury's anxiety.
- Marty South
Mentioned in connection with her earlier departure from the wagon-sheds; her reasons for cutting her hair are noted.
- Timothy Tangs
One of the workmen; recalls Grace as a child.
Key passages
“You see, Giles, coming from a fashionable school, she might feel shocked at the homeliness of home; and 'tis these little things that catch a dainty woman's eye if they are neglected.”
Melbury explains to Giles that Grace, accustomed to city life, might notice and be put off by small signs of neglect around the house.
Melbury's concern about Grace's refined sensibilities and his efforts to make a good impression.
“There, now, I hope the two will bring it to a point and have done with it! 'Tis a pity to let such a girl throw herself away upon him—a thousand pities! … And yet 'tis my duty for his father's sake.”
Melbury expresses his conflicted feelings: he wants Giles and Grace to marry, though he thinks Grace deserves better, but feels obligated due to his promise to Giles's father.
Melbury's internal conflict between duty and his hopes for Grace's future.