Agnes Grey · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Agnes Grey by Anne Brontë.

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Chapter 1
The Parsonage
Agnes Grey introduces her family background: her father, a poor clergyman, married her mother against her wealthy family's wishes, and they lived happily in a small parsonage. After a failed investment by a merchant friend, the family loses its fortune. Agnes, the younger daughter, proposes becoming a governess to help her family, and after initial resistance, her parents agree. The chapter ends with her preparing to leave for her first position with the Bloomfield family.
Chapter 2
First Lessons in the Art of Instruction
Agnes Grey begins her duties as governess at Wellwood House, encountering the Bloomfield children. She observes Master Tom Bloomfield's cruel behavior toward animals and his domineering attitude, while Mrs. Bloomfield presents a cold, forbidding demeanor and offers misleading praise of her children. Agnes struggles to connect with her pupils and feels the weight of her new position.
Chapter 3
A Few More Lessons
Agnes Grey continues her difficult role as governess to the Bloomfield children, facing constant challenges with their disobedience, tantrums, and lack of discipline. She struggles to teach Mary Ann and Tom, who are backward and resistant, while dealing with critical and unsupportive parents. Despite her efforts, she is blamed for the children's behavior and feels isolated and undervalued.
Chapter 4
IV: The Grandmamma
Agnes Grey returns home for a brief respite before resuming her arduous duties as governess to the Bloomfield children. She describes the relentless challenges of managing Tom, Mary Ann, and Fanny, who constantly rebel against her authority. Despite her efforts, she receives no support from Mr. or Mrs. Bloomfield, who either ignore or criticize her. A particularly difficult snowy afternoon and an incident involving eggshells highlight her frustration and isolation. Only the nurse, Betty, offers any sympathy, having suffered similar treatment.
Chapter 5
The Uncle
Agnes Grey describes the harmful influence of Uncle Robson, Mrs. Bloomfield's brother, who encourages the children's worst tendencies—affectation, cruelty to animals, and drinking—undoing her careful teaching. Despite her efforts, the children remain unruly, and Mrs. Bloomfield dismisses Agnes after Midsummer, claiming insufficient progress. Agnes returns home, disappointed but determined to try again.

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The Parsonage

First Lessons in the Art of Instruction

A Few More Lessons

IV: The Grandmamma

The Uncle