This Side of Paradise · Chapter
Book I: The Romantic Egotist explained
Amory Blaine's early life is introduced, from his childhood under the eccentric influence of his mother Beatrice to his education at St.
What happens
Amory Blaine's early life is introduced, from his childhood under the eccentric influence of his mother Beatrice to his education at St. Regis and Princeton, where he navigates friendships, romantic interests, and intellectual growth, all while developing a sense of romantic egotism.
Themes in this chapter
Romantic Egotism
Amory's self-absorption and idealistic view of himself and his relationships drive much of the chapter's narrative.
Education and Intellectual Growth
Amory's time at St. Regis and Princeton shapes his intellectual development and social ambitions.
Characters to notice
- Amory Blaine
Protagonist; the chapter follows his childhood, education, and early romantic and social experiences.
- Beatrice Blaine
Amory's mother; her eccentric and sophisticated influence shapes his early worldview.
- Isabelle Borgé
Amory's first significant romantic interest; their relationship is marked by youthful idealism and posturing.
- Monsignor Darcy
A mentor figure to Amory; provides guidance and intellectual stimulation.
- Tom D'Invilliers
Amory's friend at Princeton; a poet and intellectual who shares Amory's literary interests.
Key passages
“Amory Blaine inherited from his mother every trait, except the stray inexpressible few, that made him worth while.”
Amory's mother passed on to him almost all of the qualities that made him a person of value.
Highlights Beatrice's dominant influence on Amory's character.
“He was a slave to his own moods and he was a slave to the women who could read his moods.”
Amory was controlled by his emotions and by women who understood them.
Illustrates Amory's romantic egotism and vulnerability in relationships.