# How does Bertram Cope’s Year develop the theme of Social Manipulation and Patronage?

> Bertram Cope’s Year by Henry Blake Fuller

## Answer

Bertram Cope’s Year by Henry Blake Fuller develops Social Manipulation and Patronage across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

The narrative revolves around Medora Phillips and Basil Randolph maneuvering to control and possess Bertram Cope through invitations, gifts, and influence, treating him as a social trophy to be displayed and managed.

Mrs. Phillips exerts control over Cope by sending him on errands and treating him as a subordinate, while Randolph observes with a desire to extend a 'friendly hand' that might shape young men's futures.

Mrs. Phillips orchestrates Cope's visit as part of her social machine, using entertainment as a means of control and assessment.

Mrs. Phillips orchestrates the event, subtly controlling the interactions and expectations, and later manipulates Cope's feelings of obligation.

## Evidence

- [i-cope-at-a-college-tea](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/i-cope-at-a-college-tea.md): Mrs. Phillips exerts control over Cope by sending him on errands and treating him as a subordinate, while Randolph observes with a desire to extend a 'friendly hand' that might shape young men's futures.
- [ii-cope-makes-a-sunday-afternoon-call](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/ii-cope-makes-a-sunday-afternoon-call.md): Mrs. Phillips orchestrates Cope's visit as part of her social machine, using entertainment as a means of control and assessment.
- [iii-cope-is-entertained](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/iii-cope-is-entertained.md): Mrs. Phillips orchestrates the event, subtly controlling the interactions and expectations, and later manipulates Cope's feelings of obligation.
- [iv-cope-is-considered](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/iv-cope-is-considered.md): Randolph uses indirect inquiries and patronage to learn about Cope, reflecting his desire to control social interactions.
- [vi-cope-dines-and-tells-about-it](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/vi-cope-dines-and-tells-about-it.md): Cope strategically cultivates influential people like Mrs. Phillips and Randolph, aware of social caste and the benefits of patronage.
- [vii-cope-under-scrutiny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/vii-cope-under-scrutiny.md): Randolph's careful probing of Cope's background and his strategic invitations reflect a patronizing interest and subtle manipulation.
- [viii-cope-undertakes-an-excursion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/viii-cope-undertakes-an-excursion.md): Mrs. Phillips orchestrates the excursion, using her social influence to bring Cope into her circle, while Randolph navigates his role as a patron.
- [xiii-cope-dines-again-and-stays-after](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/bertram_cope_s_year_se/chapters/xiii-cope-dines-again-and-stays-after.md): Mrs. Phillips orchestrates the dinner to display Cope to her high-society circle, but her patronage fails to produce the desired impression.

## Links

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