# V: Turning a New Leaf explained — Villette

> Chapter companion for Villette by Charlotte Brontë.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/villette_se/chapters/v-turning-a-new-leaf
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/villette_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/villette_se/chapters