Babbitt · Chapter
Chapter XXVIII explained
Babbitt visits Tanis Judique's apartment to inspect a roof leak, and their flirtation deepens into an intimate evening.
What happens
Babbitt visits Tanis Judique's apartment to inspect a roof leak, and their flirtation deepens into an intimate evening. He lies to his wife about working late, buys expensive food, and shares a private supper with Tanis, feeling understood and desired.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because Babbitt's vague, suppressed dread about Paul crystallizes into a s…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Hypocrisy and Social Pretense
Babbitt lies to his wife about working late while pursuing a romantic evening with Tanis, and performs a public defense of liberal views while privately conforming to social expectations.
- Midlife Crisis and Disillusionment
Babbitt feels middle-aged and lonely, seeks validation and excitement through his affair with Tanis, and is troubled by Paul Riesling's situation.
- Gender Roles and Marriage
Babbitt's deception of Myra and his attraction to Tanis highlight the constraints of his marriage and the double standards of male-female relationships.
Characters to notice
- George F. Babbitt
Visits Tanis Judique's apartment, flirts, lies to his wife, and stays for a private supper.
- Tanis Judique
Hosts Babbitt, encourages his confidences, and shares an intimate evening.
- Myra Babbitt
Receives a deceptive phone call from Babbitt about working late.
- Theresa McGoun
Announces Mrs. Judique's phone call to Babbitt in the office.
- Virgil Gunch
Mentioned as less cordial after Babbitt's strike comments; part of the club scene Babbitt recounts.
- Chum Frink
Mentioned in Babbitt's story about the club debate over the strike.
Key passages
“Oh, I'm not going to tell you everything I know! But seriously, you don't realize what a famous man you are.”
Tanis flatters Babbitt by suggesting he is more renowned than he thinks.
Tanis strokes Babbitt's ego, deepening their emotional connection.
“Got to get a fellow to sign a lease before he leaves town on the midnight. Won't be home till late. Don't wait up for me. Kiss Tinka good night.”
Babbitt lies to his wife, claiming a business appointment to cover his evening with Tanis.
Babbitt's deception marks a turning point in his marital fidelity.
“I do hate these guys—I hate these people that invite themselves to meals, but I seem to have a feeling I'm going to have supper with the lovely Mrs. Tanis Judique tonight.”
Babbitt awkwardly invites himself to supper with Tanis, pretending reluctance.
Babbitt's self-conscious attempt to appear casual while pursuing intimacy.
