The Enchanted April · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim.
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Chapter 1
I
On a dreary February afternoon, Mrs. Wilkins, feeling invisible and trapped in her routine, spots an advertisement in The Times for a small medieval Italian castle to let for April. She dreams of escape but dismisses it as impossible until she sees Mrs. Arbuthnot also staring at the same ad. Overcoming her shyness, Mrs. Wilkins speaks to her, and they share a moment of longing for the wistaria and sunshine, recognizing their mutual unhappiness and desire for renewal.
Chapter 2
II
Mrs. Arbuthnot and Mrs. Wilkins, after meeting at a club, write to inquire about a medieval castle in Italy advertised in The Times. Mrs. Arbuthnot, a pious and charitable woman, struggles with her conscience over using her secret savings for a holiday, while Mrs. Wilkins insists that their current 'goodness' makes them unhappy and that a different, happier sort awaits them at the castle. The chapter explores Mrs. Arbuthnot's inner conflict, her secret longing, and her strained relationship with her husband Frederick, whom she has long since left to God.
Chapter 3
III
Mrs. Arbuthnot and Mrs. Wilkins interview Mrs. Fisher, who is absorbed in memories of famous Victorians and asks for references. Mrs. Wilkins' excitable talk of seeing Keats alarms Mrs. Fisher, but after a tense exchange, Mrs. Fisher waives references. Later, the women learn the castle rent is £60 and the owner wants references. Mrs. Arbuthnot pays the full rent in person, and the owner waives the references upon meeting her.
Chapter 4
IV
Mrs. Arbuthnot and Mrs. Wilkins travel to San Salvatore, arriving on March 31st. The chapter details their anxious March: Mrs. Wilkins tells her husband Mellersh about the trip, leading to conflict; Mrs. Arbuthnot struggles with guilt over her deception and her conscience. They depart feeling guilty but gradually find joy as they leave England behind.
Chapter 5
V
Mrs. Arbuthnot and Mrs. Wilkins arrive in Italy amid cloudy, rainy weather. Their train is four hours late, but Domenico, the gardener at San Salvatore, has arranged for Beppo's fly to meet them. After a chaotic journey through the dark, they are led on foot through the village and up ancient steps to the castle, where they finally arrive safely. Mrs. Wilkins kisses Mrs. Arbuthnot, marking the first event in their new home.
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