# Philip Carey — Of Human Bondage character guide > Philip Carey in Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Philip, Mr. Carey, Carey, Philip Carey, Master Philip **First appearance:** 0000-i ## Snapshot A club-footed orphan raised in a vicarage, he stumbles through art, medicine, and ruinous love, asking what a life is actually for. ## Who they are Philip enters the world marked by two things he cannot choose: a dead mother and a deformed foot, and the shame of the second shapes his shyness, his ambition, and his hunger to be loved. Raised by a cold vicar uncle and a gentle aunt, he is set to memorizing collects he cannot understand, sobbing alone at the dining-room table. His early years establish the pattern the novel will test: a boy who thinks his way toward freedom but feels his way into bondage. ## Relationships ### [Mildred Rogers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/mildred_rogers) _psychological_ Philip is obsessively infatuated with Mildred, who manipulates and exploits his feelings while treating him with contempt. ### [Miss Wilkinson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/miss_wilkinson) _romantic_ An older woman who seduces the young Philip during his stay in Blackstable, marking his first sexual experience. ### [Sally Athelny](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/sally_athelny) _romantic_ A warm, wholesome relationship that evolves from friendship into love, offering Philip stability and happiness. ### [Norah Nesbit](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/norah_nesbit) _romantic_ A kind and supportive lover who provides Philip with genuine affection, but he leaves her for Mildred. ### [Griffiths](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/griffiths) _friendship_ A charismatic friend who betrays Philip by seducing Mildred, causing deep hurt and resentment. ### [Cronshaw](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/cronshaw) _friendship_ A cynical, alcoholic poet who influences Philip's philosophical outlook and introduces him to the idea of life's meaninglessness. ### [Mrs. Carey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/mrs_carey) _family_ Philip's cold, religious aunt who raises him but shows little warmth or understanding. ### [Hayward](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/hayward) _friendship_ An aesthetic, intellectual friend whose romantic ideals Philip eventually outgrows. ### [Mr. Perkins](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/mr_perkins) _professional_ The headmaster of Philip's school who recognizes his potential and encourages his academic pursuits. ### [Doctor South](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/doctor_south) _professional_ A gruff but fair doctor who becomes Philip's mentor and later offers him a partnership. ### [Mary Ann](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/mary_ann) _social_ The Careys' maid who provides Philip with small comforts and gossip during his childhood. ### [Macalister](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/macalister) _friendship_ A stockbroker friend who introduces Philip to risky speculation, leading to financial ruin. ## In the story ### [The Day Breaks Gray and Dull](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/i) A young child, half asleep, brought to his mother's bedside for a final embrace. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/ii) Philip is playing in Miss Watkin's drawing-room when Emma arrives to take him home after his mother's death. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/iii) Grieving his mother's death, Philip is taken by his uncle and must leave his nurse Emma behind. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/iv) Arrives at the vicarage, remembers the gate, and adapts to his new surroundings. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/v) Begins to learn about his parents through fragments of conversation and the discovery of his mother's photographs. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/vi) Philip accompanies his aunt on shopping trips, does lessons with his uncle and aunt, and navigates the strict routines of the vicarage. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/vii) Philip participates in the Sunday rituals, cuts crusts for communion bread, and begins to feel affection for his uncle and Mary Ann. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/viii) Feels lonely and rebellious; plays with bricks on Sunday, refuses to apologize, and later kisses his aunt for the first time unprompted. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/ix) Struggles to memorize the collect, breaks down crying, and finds solace in reading illustrated books. ### [Philip Goes to School](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/x) Philip is nervous and frightened about starting school; he reveals his clubfoot to the headmaster and is later teased by another boy. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xi) Endures bullying and humiliation over his clubfoot; recalls his mother's warmth in a moment of despair. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xii) Becomes increasingly sensitive about his clubfoot, adopts a peculiar walk, and suffers bullying from Singer after being excused from punishment due to his disability. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xiii) Philip is now nearly twelve, self-conscious about his clubfoot, and struggles with a lie he told about a pen-holder. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xiv) Philip becomes intensely devout, joins a Bible League, and prays for his clubfoot to be healed, but his faith is shaken when the miracle does not happen. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xv) Enters King's School at Tercanbury at age thirteen. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xvi) Philip is terrorized by Mr. Gordon, who calls him a 'clubfooted blockhead.' He finds solace in Mr. Perkins' classes and is comforted by the headmaster's kindness after being black-booked. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xvii) Philip experiences a religious revival under Mr. Perkins' influence, decides to be ordained, and offers his deformity as a sacrifice during confirmation. He also begins to feel the first dawn of aesthetic emotion. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xviii) Philip struggles with spiritual aridity, develops a sarcastic humor, and forms an intense, possessive friendship with Rose. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xix) Returns to school after scarlet fever, struggles with jealousy and pride over losing Rose's friendship, and seeks revenge through association with Sharp. ### [XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xx) Philip is disillusioned with school and the clergy, resisting Mr. Perkins' persuasion to be ordained. ### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxi) Philip resolves to leave school for Germany, feels conflicted about his decision, and rejects ordination, causing his aunt distress. ### [Heidelberg](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxii) Arrives in Heidelberg, feels shy but exhilarated, experiences beauty for the first time. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxiii) Enjoys his freedom in Heidelberg, studies with Wharton, and develops a crush on Fräulein Hedwig. ### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxiv) Receives daily German lessons from Professor Erlin and is exposed to contemporary artistic debates. ### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxv) Philip observes his French teacher with curiosity and offers him advance payment out of sympathy. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxvi) Philip is impressionable and eager for self-improvement, falling under Hayward's influence and defending him against Weeks's criticism. ### [XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxvii) Participates in discussions about religion and class; tries to define a gentleman; receives Renan's 'Vie de Jésus' from Weeks. ### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxviii) Philip experiences a dramatic loss of faith, realizing he no longer believes in God, and feels both freedom and fear as he sheds his childhood religion. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxix) Yearns for experience and feels ridiculous for not having had romantic encounters; is deeply affected by the modern plays he sees, which reveal the evil and hypocrisy in human nature. ### [The Scandal at Frau Erlin's](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxx) Observes the affair between Cäcilie and Herr Sung, feeling restless and disturbed by the raw passion and hypocrisy around him. ### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxi) Leaves Heidelberg, avoids traveling with Miss Wilkinson, corresponds with Hayward, attends philosophy lectures, and agrees to return to England. ### [XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxii) Returns home to Blackstable, notices his uncle and aunt's age, and becomes intrigued by Miss Wilkinson's stories of Paris. ### [XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxiii) Obsessed with Miss Wilkinson's stories, he resolves to kiss her and succeeds; also agrees to become a chartered accountant. ### [XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxiv) Philip initiates a secret rendezvous with Miss Wilkinson, feeling both nervous and thrilled by the romantic game he plays. ### [XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxv) Experiences post-coital disillusionment with Miss Wilkinson, yet romanticizes the affair in a letter to Hayward. ### [XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxvi) Arrives in London, begins his articled clerkship, feels out of place and self-conscious about his appearance and clubfoot. ### [XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxvii) Feels intensely lonely in London, struggles with his deformity, and is burdened by Miss Wilkinson's letters. ### [XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxviii) Decides to leave accountancy and pursue art in Paris; endures final months with loathing. ### [XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxix) Determined to leave accountancy and pursue art in Paris, despite his uncle's opposition. ### [XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xl) Starts art school at Amitrano's, buys drawing materials, and receives initial instruction from Fanny Price. ### [XLI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xli) Philip explores Paris, attends sketch classes, and participates in art discussions at Gravier's. ### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlii) Philip is excited by new artistic ideas and feels self-confident, believing he has genius after drinking and listening to Cronshaw. ### [XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xliii) Philip is a new student at the studio, absorbing Fanny Price's explanations of Impressionist paintings and feeling ashamed of his own ignorance. ### [XLIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xliv) Deepens his artistic education in Paris, visits the Louvre, and adopts a bohemian lifestyle. ### [XLV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlv) Engages in philosophical debate with Cronshaw, questioning morality and free will; feels intellectually overwhelmed. ### [XLVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlvi) Philip manages his finances, moves into a studio with Lawson, and navigates a tense friendship with Fanny Price. ### [XLVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlvii) Philip is restless and envious upon discovering Lawson and Ruth Chalice's affair; he yearns for a consuming passion but is conflicted by his own critical perceptions. ### [XLVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlviii) Philip paints a portrait of Miguel Ajuria, reflects on artistic ambition, and rushes to Fanny Price's room after receiving her desperate letter. ### [XLIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xlix) Investigates Fanny Price's suicide, handles arrangements with her brother, and reflects on the sordidness of life. ### [The Doubt of a Painter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/l) Philip is tormented by self-doubt after Fanny's suicide, questioning his artistic talent and considering abandoning painting for a more practical life. ### [LI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/li) Seeks Foinet's opinion on his art and receives a crushing verdict; learns of Aunt Louisa's death. ### [LII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lii) Returns to Blackstable after Aunt Louisa's death; decides to abandon art and study medicine; shows emotional restraint and resolve. ### [LIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/liii) Philip reflects on his past, his emotional detachment, and his philosophical journey. He decides to live by his own rules and sets out for London. ### [LIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/liv) Enters medical school at St. Luke's, attends first anatomy lecture, and begins dissecting a leg. ### [LV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lv) Struggles with the tedium of medical studies and feels isolated; becomes fixated on Mildred after she snubs him. ### [LVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lvi) Obsessively returns to the teashop, uses his drawing to get Mildred's attention, and feels humiliated by her indifference. ### [LVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lvii) Philip waits anxiously for Mildred, takes her to dinner and the theatre, and realizes he is in love with her despite finding her vulgar and common. ### [LVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lviii) Obsessively pursues Mildred, enduring her humiliations and spying on her. ### [LIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lix) Philip is consumed by obsessive love for Mildred, humiliates himself by apologizing, and struggles to concentrate on his studies, ultimately failing his biology exam. ### [LX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lx) Tremulous with joy, he confesses his love and suffering to Mildred, baring his heart and showing his weakness. ### [LXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxi) Deeply in love with Mildred, he is possessive, jealous, and often humiliates himself to win her affection. ### [LXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxii) Tormented by his obsessive love for Mildred, he contemplates marriage despite his rational objections. ### [LXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxiii) Fails his anatomy exam, but is consumed by his efforts to win Mildred's love. He suppresses his emotions and adopts a patient, attentive strategy. ### [LXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxiv) Awakens unable to sleep, tormented by Mildred's marriage; buys her a showy wedding present; meets Hayward and spends the day in art and conversation, finding temporary relief from pain. ### [LXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxv) Emerges from his obsession with Mildred, feeling reborn and disgusted by his past degradation. Reflects on life's meaning and reconnects with Lawson. ### [LXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxvi) Passes his First Conjoint examination, begins a relationship with Norah Nesbit, and reflects on his past love for Mildred with horror. ### [LXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxvii) Returns to London to study, reflects on his past passion for Mildred, and engages in philosophical debates about free will and reason. ### [LXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxviii) Falls ill with influenza and is cared for by Griffiths; develops a deep admiration for Griffiths. ### [Chapter LXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxix) Philip provides financial and emotional support to Mildred after her abandonment, struggles with his lingering love and disgust, and neglects Norah. ### [LXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxx) Philip is torn between his love for Mildred and his guilt toward Norah. He feels trapped by his obsession and performs menial tasks for Mildred with a sense of pleasure. ### [LXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxi) Ends his affair with Norah Nesbit to pursue Mildred Rogers. ### [LXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxii) Devotedly cares for Mildred during her pregnancy, works while she rests, and plans a future with her. ### [LXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxiii) Deeply in love with Mildred, he plans a Paris trip, writes passionate letters, passes his exam, but feels insecure about visiting her in Brighton. ### [LXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxiv) Philip arranges for Mildred and Griffiths to meet, initially enjoying their camaraderie but soon becoming consumed by jealousy and suspicion. ### [LXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxv) Philip is hopeful about the Paris trip but becomes devastated and angry when Mildred confesses her love for Griffiths. ### [LXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxvi) Philip is consumed by his love for Mildred and his jealousy of Griffiths. He manipulates the situation to fund their trip, despite his own suffering, and later struggles with his feelings of betrayal and self-loathing. ### [LXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxvii) Endures intense jealousy and humiliation after giving Mildred money to go away with Griffiths; drinks heavily and seeks a prostitute. ### [LXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxviii) Philip reflects on his weak will and lack of self-control, suffers intensely over Mildred's betrayal, and retreats to Blackstable. ### [LXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxix) Philip moves into new lodgings, decorates them, and visits Norah Nesbit seeking forgiveness and reconciliation after Mildred left him. ### [Chapter LXXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxx) Continues medical studies, feigns indifference upon hearing of Mildred and Griffiths' breakup. ### [LXXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxi) Philip becomes an outpatients' clerk under Dr. Tyrell, observing the daily stream of patients and the realities of illness and poverty. ### [LXXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxii) Visits Cronshaw in London, reflects on life and death. ### [LXXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxiii) Visits Cronshaw's squalid room, is horrified by his condition, and insists he move into his spare room. ### [LXXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxiv) Struggles with the burden of caring for Cronshaw and endures public humiliation about his clubfoot from Mr. Jacobs. ### [LXXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxv) Discovers Cronshaw's body, arranges the funeral, and reflects on the meaninglessness of Cronshaw's life. ### [LXXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxvi) Serves as an inpatients' clerk, gaining medical knowledge and forming a friendship with patient Thorpe Athelny. ### [LXXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxvii) Visits Athelny's home, observes his family and eccentricities. ### [LXXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxviii) Philip is profoundly troubled and excited by El Greco's paintings, feeling he is on the threshold of a new discovery about life and meaning. ### [LXXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxix) Philip visits the Athelnys, enjoys their family circle, and becomes a regular Sunday guest. ### [XC](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xc) Philip encounters Mildred, feels horror at her situation, and offers her a place to live out of pity and a desire to rescue her. ### [XCI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xci) Prepares the room for Mildred, feels no love for her but pity, and establishes a business-like arrangement. ### [XCII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcii) Maintains a platonic relationship with Mildred, feels pity rather than love, and is anxious about his finances after missing a stock market opportunity. ### [XCIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xciii) Philip grows attached to Mildred's baby, speculates on the stock market, and decides to have an operation on his clubfoot. ### [XCIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xciv) Reflects on his lost love for Mildred and plans his future in medicine and travel. ### [XCV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcv) Starts surgical dressing, takes accident duty, feels indifferent to Mildred, worries about finances, and briefly enjoys a tender Christmas moment. ### [XCVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcvi) Maintains a platonic relationship with Mildred, rejecting her advances and expressing disgust. ### [XCVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcvii) Discovers his flat wrecked by Mildred; moves to cheap lodgings; returns to hospital work; reflects on his deformity and the absurdity of the situation. ### [XCVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcviii) Philip is devastated by his financial losses and writes to his uncle for help, but is refused. He struggles with anxiety and despair over his inability to continue his medical studies. ### [XCIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xcix) Penniless and ashamed, Philip pawns his clothes, eats minimally, and searches for work. He refuses help from his landlady and avoids borrowing from friends. ### [C](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/c) Destitute and desperate, Philip searches for work and struggles with hunger and humiliation. ### [CI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/ci) Philip is destitute, homeless, and emotionally fragile. He accepts the Athelnys' offer to stay with them. ### [CII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cii) Accepts a job as a shop-walker at Lynn and Sedley after his poster is rejected. ### [CIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/ciii) Starts work at Lynn's as a floor-walker, suffers from foot pain, and adapts to the harsh conditions of shop life. ### [CIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/civ) Attends the social evening at Lynn's, feeling deeply depressed and alone despite participating in the festivities. ### [CV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cv) Works as a shop assistant at Lynn's, dreads the public display of dressing the window, and obsessively hopes for his uncle's death to fund his return to medical school. ### [CVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cvi) Philip reflects on the meaning of life, encounters Lawson, and learns of Hayward's death. ### [CVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cvii) Works as a shop-walker and later designer at Lynn's, using his Paris art training to create costumes. ### [CVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cviii) Works at Lynn's, receives a raise to twelve shillings, visits his ailing uncle, learns Spanish, and plans a trip to Spain. ### [CIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cix) Receives a letter from Mildred, visits her, diagnoses her illness, and reluctantly continues to see her. ### [Chapter CX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cx) Visits his dying uncle, struggles with financial desperation and the temptation to hasten his uncle's death. ### [CXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxi) Works at Lynn's with growing lassitude; returns to Blackstable for his uncle's death; nurses him and witnesses his final moments. ### [CXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxii) Inherits his uncle's estate, sorts through papers, discovers a letter from his mother, returns to medical school, and visits his old school, reflecting on his past. ### [CXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxiii) Philip serves as a district doctor, attending confinements and learning about the lives of the poor. ### [CXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxiv) Completes his district obstetrics work, exhausted by sixty-three cases; attends a tragic birth where the young mother dies. ### [CXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxv) Returns to medical school after a two-year hiatus, works with energy, and gives gifts to the Athelny family from his uncle's estate. ### [CXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxvi) Philip qualifies as a doctor, takes a locum position with Doctor South, and reflects on his past friendships and his feelings about money and independence. ### [CXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxvii) Completes his locum with Doctor South, receives an invitation from Athelny, and declines a partnership offer to pursue his dream of travel. ### [CXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxviii) Arrives at Ferne to join the Athelny family for hop-picking; feels comfortable and at home. ### [CXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxix) Works alongside Sally, feels happy and expectant, kisses her in the darkness. ### [CXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxx) Awakens with regret and self-reproach after the night's intimacy, but is gradually reassured by Sally's unchanged manner. ### [Chapter CXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxxi) Philip is torn between his dream of traveling the world and his sense of responsibility toward Sally. He ultimately decides to marry her and accept a practice in a fishing village, finding peace in self-sacrifice. ### [CXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/cxxii) Experiences a moment of panic when he mistakes a stranger for Mildred, then proposes to Sally after realizing he wants a home and love more than travel. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters/philip_carey - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/characters