Washington Square · Chapter
XXXV explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Penniman delivers a message from Morris Townsend, who wishes to see Catherine again. Catherine refuses, but Morris arrives unexpectedly. Catherine, now older and changed, confronts him coldly, rejecting his attempts at reconciliation and friendship. Morris leaves frustrated, and Catherine resumes her sewing, resigned to her solitary life.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Self-Interest
Morris's return is motivated by self-interest, seeking to re-establish a connection with Catherine now that she is wealthy and free, while Catherine sees through his attempts.
Innocence and Experience
Catherine has gained emotional maturity and experience over the years, recognizing the changes in Morris and refusing to be swayed by his charm.
Appearance vs. Reality
Morris appears handsome and well-preserved, but Catherine perceives the reality of his selfishness and lack of genuine feeling.
Characters to notice
- Catherine Sloper
Catherine is now older and has lived quietly. She firmly rejects Morris's attempt to rekindle their relationship, showing emotional detachment and resolve.
- Morris Townsend
Morris returns after years, now aged forty-five, well-preserved and comfortable. He seeks reconciliation but is rebuffed by Catherine.
- Lavinia Penniman
Mrs. Penniman acts as an intermediary, delivering Morris's message and arranging his visit, but is left staring after Morris's angry departure.
Key passages
“She would never have known him. He was forty-five years old, and his figure was not that of the straight, slim young man she remembered.”
Catherine did not recognize Morris at first; he had aged and his physique had changed from the slender youth she recalled.
Highlights the passage of time and Morris's physical transformation.
“It seemed to be he, and yet not he; it was the man who had been everything, and yet this person was nothing.”
Morris appeared familiar yet alien; the man who once meant everything to her now seemed insignificant.
Captures Catherine's emotional detachment and the dissolution of her past feelings.
“I can't begin again—I can't take it up. Everything is dead and buried.”
Catherine refuses to rekindle their relationship, stating that the past is irrevocably over.
Shows Catherine's finality and emotional closure.