# Chapter XX explained — Washington Square

> Chapter companion for Washington Square by Henry James.

## What happens

Catherine and Morris meet privately, where Morris pressures her to marry him immediately despite her father's opposition. Catherine struggles with her fear of her father and the threat of disinheritance, but ultimately agrees to marry Morris as soon as he wishes.

## Themes in this chapter

### Parental Control and Rebellion

Catherine's struggle between obeying her father and marrying Morris highlights the conflict between parental authority and personal desire.

### Wealth and Class

The threat of disinheritance underscores the role of money in relationships and the power dynamics between father and daughter.

### Deception and Self-Interest

Morris's insistence on immediate marriage and his dismissal of the disinheritance threat may hint at self-interest, while Catherine's compliance reflects her own emotional needs.

## Character check-ins

### Catherine Sloper

Catherine meets Morris privately, torn between her love for him and her fear of her father. She ultimately agrees to marry him soon, despite the threat of disinheritance.

### Morris Townsend

Morris presses Catherine for an immediate marriage, arguing logically and passionately. He dismisses Dr. Sloper's threat of disinheritance, insisting his affection is unaffected.

### Dr. Austin Sloper

Though not present, Dr. Sloper's influence looms large. Catherine delivers his message that she will be disinherited if she marries without his consent.

### Lavinia Penniman

Mrs. Penniman is mentioned as having recommended an immediate union regardless of consequences, which Catherine notes with a hint of shrewdness.

## Key lines

> She received him in the big, bright front parlour, and she instructed the servant that if anyone should call she was particularly engaged.

Catherine welcomed Morris in the front room and told the servant she was not to be disturbed.

_Shows Catherine's deliberate choice to prioritize her meeting with Morris over other obligations._

> I have chosen you! she said passionately. Then marry me next week.

Catherine declared her choice of Morris, and he immediately pressed for a wedding within the week.

_Highlights the intensity of Morris's urgency and Catherine's emotional commitment._

> He told me to tell you—to tell you very distinctly, and directly from himself, that if I marry without his consent, I shall not inherit a penny of his fortune.

Catherine relayed her father's explicit threat that she would be disinherited if she married without his approval.

_Demonstrates Dr. Sloper's attempt to control Catherine through financial coercion._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se/chapters/xx
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se/chapters