North and South · Chapter
XXXVIII: Promises Fulfilled explained
Margaret Hale is tormented by Mr.
What happens
Margaret Hale is tormented by Mr. Thornton's knowledge of her falsehood and his belief that she has a secret lover. Mrs. Thornton confronts Margaret about her impropriety, but Margaret refuses to explain. Meanwhile, Mr. Thornton struggles with jealousy and the financial damage from the strike. Nicholas Higgins, a union leader, asks Thornton for work, leading to a tense confrontation.
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
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this excerpt, the narrative climax occurs because Thornton reaches an emotional and psychological peak wher…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Pride and Prejudice
Thornton's jealousy and Margaret's pride prevent honest communication, while Mrs. Thornton's prejudice against Margaret is evident.
- Social Class and Industrial Conflict
The strike and Higgins's request for work highlight the class struggle between workers and mill owners.
- Moral Integrity and Redemption
Margaret's falsehood and Thornton's struggle with his feelings for her despite her perceived moral failing explore themes of integrity and judgment.
Characters to notice
- Margaret Hale
Margaret is distressed by Mr. Thornton's judgment and Mrs. Thornton's accusations, but she refuses to explain her actions.
- John Thornton
Thornton is consumed by jealousy, believing Margaret has a secret lover, and struggles with his feelings and the strike's impact on his business.
- Mrs. Thornton
Mrs. Thornton confronts Margaret about her impropriety, but is somewhat mollified by Margaret's proud response.
- Nicholas Higgins
Higgins, a union leader, approaches Thornton to ask for work, leading to a tense exchange.
Key passages
“He could not forget the fond and earnest look that had passed between her and some other man—the attitude of familiar confidence, if not of positive endearment.”
Thornton is haunted by the memory of Margaret's affectionate look with another man, which he interprets as a sign of intimacy.
This reveals Thornton's jealousy and the misunderstanding that drives his anguish.
“I want work.”
Higgins asks Thornton for employment.
This request sets up the conflict between the union leader and the mill owner.
