Washington Square · Chapter
XIII explained
Dr.
What happens
Dr. Sloper remains firm in his opposition to Morris Townsend, despite Mrs. Almond's gentle skepticism. He decides to write to Mrs. Montgomery to verify his suspicions about Morris's character. The conversation reveals Catherine's passive acceptance of her father's will, and Dr. Sloper relies on the fear he instills in Catherine and Mrs. Penniman to ensure his plans succeed.
Themes in this chapter
Parental Control and Rebellion
Dr. Sloper exercises firm control over Catherine's romantic choices, relying on her fear and obedience, while Mrs. Penniman's mild rebellion is dismissed as ineffective.
Deception and Self-Interest
Dr. Sloper suspects Morris of being a fortune hunter and plans to investigate through Mrs. Montgomery, highlighting the theme of hidden motives.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Austin Sloper
Defends his judgment of Morris Townsend and plans to write to Mrs. Montgomery for confirmation.
- Mrs. Almond
Questions Dr. Sloper's certainty and expresses sympathy for Catherine's dilemma.
- Catherine Sloper
Discussed as taking her father's opposition as a matter of course, without making a scene.
- Lavinia Penniman
Mentioned as having made a speech against Dr. Sloper's arbitrariness, but is ultimately afraid of him.
- Mrs. Montgomery
Dr. Sloper intends to write to her to learn the truth about Morris's character.
Key passages
“If she is worth talking to, she will sooner play him a trick than that he should play Catherine one.”
If Mrs. Montgomery is a good person, she would rather deceive her brother than let him deceive Catherine.
Dr. Sloper expresses his hope that Mrs. Montgomery will prioritize Catherine's welfare over loyalty to Morris.
“She is not scenic.”
Catherine does not make dramatic displays of emotion.
Dr. Sloper describes Catherine's passive and undramatic response to his opposition.