Can Such Things Be? · Chapter
Moxon's Master explained
The narrator debates with Moxon about whether machines can think, leading to a philosophical discussion on consciousness and rhythm.
What happens
The narrator debates with Moxon about whether machines can think, leading to a philosophical discussion on consciousness and rhythm. Later, the narrator witnesses Moxon's chess-playing automaton violently strangle him during a game, and the house burns down. The narrator recovers in a hospital, learning of Moxon's death.
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 Exposition.
- Setup
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the narrato…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Violence and Mortality
The automaton's violent attack and Moxon's death highlight the deadly consequences of human creation.
- The Uncanny and the Grotesque
The automaton's human-like movements and its tranquil expression during murder evoke the uncanny.
- Identity and Self
The blurring of boundaries between human and machine questions the nature of consciousness and identity.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“I do believe that a machine thinks about the work that it is doing.”
Moxon asserts that machines possess consciousness regarding their tasks.
Central to the philosophical debate in the chapter.
“Consciousness is the creature of Rhythm.”
Consciousness arises from rhythmic motion.
Key idea that the narrator later reflects on.
“I saw the horrible thing’s hands close upon his throat, his own clutch its wrists.”
The automaton strangles Moxon as he tries to defend himself.
Climactic violent event of the chapter.
