Villette · Chapter
V: Turning a New Leaf explained
After Miss Marchmont's death, Lucy Snowe finds herself alone and must seek new employment.
What happens
After Miss Marchmont's death, Lucy Snowe finds herself alone and must seek new employment. With fifteen pounds saved, she visits an old family servant, Mrs. Barrett, for advice. Inspired by the sight of the Aurora Borealis, she resolves to go to London. She travels to the city, stays at an old inn, and overcomes initial loneliness and uncertainty, finding solace in the shadow of St. Paul's.
Themes in this chapter
Isolation and Identity
Lucy experiences profound isolation after Miss Marchmont's death and during her first night in London, questioning her purpose and place in the world.
Illusion vs. Reality
Lucy's romanticized view of London as a 'Babylon' contrasts with the harsh reality of her lonely, bewildering arrival.
Characters to notice
- Lucy Snowe
Lucy is the protagonist, now orphaned and seeking a new path after Miss Marchmont's death. She decides to go to London.
- Miss Marchmont
Lucy's former mistress, who has recently died, leaving Lucy alone.
- Mrs. Barrett
An old family servant and former nurse to Lucy, now a housekeeper. She provides comfort and the address of an inn in London.
- Ginevra Fanshawe
Not directly present, but Lucy recalls her schooldays with a young lady who is now Mrs. Leigh, a former schoolfellow.
Key passages
“My mistress being dead, and I once more alone, I had to look out for a new place.”
With my employer dead and myself again solitary, I needed to find new employment.
Lucy's situation after Miss Marchmont's death.
“A bold thought was sent to my mind; my mind was made strong to receive it. 'Leave this wilderness,' it was said to me, 'and go out hence.'”
A daring idea came to me, and I felt empowered to accept it: 'Leave this desolate place and venture forth.'
Lucy's inspiration to leave for London.
“I lie in the shadow of St. Paul's.”
I am sleeping in the vicinity of St. Paul's Cathedral.
Lucy's realization of her location in London, providing a sense of grounding.