Marriage and Ambition

Where it surfaces

• I: The Pastor's Progress

  Phoebe's marriage to Mr. Beecham is a strategic move for advancement, and her ambition drives their relocation and his career progression.

• The Leading Member

  The Copperhead marriage is a transactional arrangement where Mrs. Copperhead's gentility is traded for financial security, yet she remains subjugated.

• IV: A Country Party

  Sophy Dorset explicitly argues that girls should be encouraged to think of good matches as a practical path to consequence, while Anne Dorset worries about the moral corruption of such ambition.

• VI: A Morning Call

  Clarence's attention to Ursula and Sir Robert's hope for Anne to make a good match reflect the era's view of marriage as a vehicle for social advancement.

• Shopping

  Ursula's fantasy of marrying a rich man reflects the societal ambition for upward mobility through marriage, contrasting with Mrs. Copperhead's unhappy marriage.

• VIII: The Dorsets

  Sophy questions Ursula about marrying for wealth and comfort, warning against a man like Mr. Copperhead, while Ursula insists she is not thinking of marriage.

• XI: Phoebe’s Preparations

  Phoebe views marriage as a natural step to a good position; she is aware of Clarence Copperhead's interest but wants to assert her independence first, hoping to humble his wealthy father.

• XXVI: The Hall

  Sophy's teasing about marriage and Ursula's discomfort reflect the societal pressure on women to marry well, while Clarence's wealth makes him a potential catch.

• XXXI: Society

  Clarence Copperhead considers marrying either Ursula or Phoebe, viewing them as options for his own amusement and future comfort, reflecting mercenary attitudes toward marriage.

• XXXII: Lovemaking

  Phoebe views Clarence as a 'Career' rather than a 'Passion,' weighing the social struggle of marrying above her station. Clarence sees Phoebe as a practical asset for his political and social ambitions.

• Father and Son

  Phoebe's strategic defense and Clarence's rebellion are tied to marital prospects and familial ambitions.

• A Pleasant Evening

  Phoebe's calculation of Clarence's proposal and her willingness to 'manage, guide, and make a man of him' underscores the transactional nature of marriage in Victorian society.

• XLI: A Morning's Work

  Clarence's proposal represents a strategic match for Phoebe, offering wealth and social elevation, which she accepts with satisfaction rather than transport.

• The Conflict

  Phoebe's strategic engagement to Clarence is celebrated by her grandfather as a rise in status, while Clarence views it as a condescension.

• XLIV: Phoebe’s Last Trial

  Phoebe's ambition for Clarence's political career is central; she must choose between a wealthy future and honor when faced with disinheritance.

• XLV: The Last

  Clarence marries Phoebe for her brains; Phoebe gains wealth and status; Ursula and Sophy discuss marriage as a path to happiness or disappointment.