# XXXVIII explained — The Woodlanders

> Chapter companion for The Woodlanders by Thomas Hardy.

## What happens

Giles Winterborne is stunned by Melbury's suggestion that he might eventually claim Grace after her divorce. He doubts the possibility, aware of the social and legal barriers. Meanwhile, Grace, relieved by the prospect of the 'new law,' recovers her spirits. A subsequent meeting in Sherton reveals the gap between her acquired tastes and Giles's humble offerings, causing mutual distress.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Ambition

Giles's awareness of his lower social standing and Grace's internal conflict between her acquired tastes and her affection for Giles highlight the persistent class barriers.

### Love and Marriage

The chapter explores the tension between romantic love and the legal/social realities of marriage, especially the possibility of divorce and remarriage.

### Tradition vs. Modernity

The 'new law' represents a modern legal change that challenges traditional views on marriage and divorce, causing both hope and confusion.

## Character check-ins

### Giles Winterborne

Struggles with doubt and magnanimity after Melbury's proposal; his love for Grace is tempered by realism and past rejection.

### Grace Melbury

Finds solace in the idea of the 'new law' but is painfully reminded of her refined tastes when confronted with humble surroundings.

### George Melbury

Acts impulsively out of anxiety to repair his earlier error, urging Giles to prepare to woo Grace despite legal obstacles.

### Edgar Fitzpiers

Referenced as Grace's husband and the source of her acquired tastes; his debts and luxurious habits contrast with Giles's honesty.

### Old Dr. Jones

Mentioned as having surmised the effect of the news on Grace's spirits.

## Key lines

> At these warm words Winterborne was not less dazed than he was moved in heart.

Giles was both stunned and emotionally stirred by Melbury's encouraging words.

_Highlights Giles's shock at the sudden reversal of his fortunes._

> She gently slid her hand from his, and went in front of him out of the Abbey.

Grace withdrew her hand and walked ahead of Giles as they left the Abbey.

_Shows Grace's cautiousness about public appearances with Giles._

> It was the same susceptibility over again which had spoiled his Christmas party long ago.

Giles recognized that Grace's discomfort mirrored her reaction to his earlier Christmas party.

_Emphasizes the recurring theme of class differences affecting their relationship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woodlanders_se/chapters/xxxviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woodlanders_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woodlanders_se/chapters