Washington Square · Chapter
Chapter XXVI explained
Catherine returns home and reunites with Morris Townsend, who visits her in the front parlour.
What happens
Catherine returns home and reunites with Morris Townsend, who visits her in the front parlour. They discuss their future, and Catherine reveals that her father remains unyielding. She insists they must not seek his approval, confessing that she feels her father does not love her. Morris proposes confronting Dr. Sloper again, but Catherine firmly refuses, asking him never to despise her.
Themes in this chapter
Parental Control and Rebellion
Catherine asserts her independence by deciding to marry Morris without her father's consent, despite the emotional cost of separation.
Deception and Self-Interest
Morris's concern for his 'moral comfort' and 'intellectual satisfaction' reveals his self-interest beneath the romantic surface.
Love and Marriage
Catherine and Morris's reunion highlights the tension between romantic love and practical considerations, including family approval and financial security.
Characters to notice
- Catherine Sloper
Returns home and reunites with Morris; reveals her father's continued opposition and her own feelings of being unloved by him; insists they must proceed without his approval.
- Morris Townsend
Visits Catherine in the front parlour; expresses desire to confront Dr. Sloper again; discusses his business success and his pride in proving the Doctor wrong.
- Lavinia Penniman
Mentioned as having given Catherine a message from Morris and as having commented on Catherine's appearance.
- Dr. Austin Sloper
Referenced as having returned from England in the same state of mind, refusing to yield; Catherine feels he does not love her, comparing her unfavorably to her late mother.
Key passages
“I am very glad you have come back; it makes me very happy to see you again.”
Morris welcomes Catherine home warmly, expressing joy at their reunion.
Morris's greeting sets a romantic tone for their private conversation.
“He is not very fond of me!”
Catherine confesses that she believes her father does not love her.
This revelation marks a turning point in Catherine's understanding of her relationship with her father.
“We must be very happy together, and we must not seem to depend upon his forgiveness.”
Catherine insists that she and Morris should build their happiness independently, without seeking her father's approval.
Catherine's resolve shows her growth and determination to prioritize her own future.