The Golden Bowl · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for The Golden Bowl by Henry James.

Read with companions Book page

Each chapter has a companion in the reader — open a free preview to see notes beside the text.

Chapter 1
The Golden Bowl
Charlotte Stant and Prince Amerigo, former lovers, reunite in London and secretly purchase a gilded crystal bowl as a wedding gift for Maggie Verver, Amerigo's fiancée. The bowl's hidden flaw symbolizes the deception and hidden truths that will later unravel their relationships.
Chapter 2
Book First: The Prince
The Prince, Amerigo, reflects on his impending marriage to Maggie Verver and his past relationship with Charlotte Stant. He visits Fanny Assingham, who discusses the marriage and Charlotte's return to London. The chapter establishes the complex web of relationships and the Prince's sense of obligation.
Chapter 3
I
Prince Amerigo reflects on his impending marriage to Maggie Verver, his sense of obligation, and the role of Fanny Assingham in arranging the match. He contemplates the Ververs' trust in him and his own place within their world, feeling both privileged and constrained.
Chapter 4
Chapter II
Fanny Assingham informs Prince Amerigo that Charlotte Stant has unexpectedly arrived in London. The Prince, initially surprised, discusses Charlotte's situation with Fanny, who notes Charlotte's loneliness and lack of means. They debate the implications of her visit, with Fanny expressing concern about complications, while the Prince maintains a composed demeanor. The chapter ends with Charlotte's cab arriving at Fanny's door.
Chapter 5
III
Prince Amerigo and Charlotte Stant are left alone after Mrs. Assingham's departure, and they navigate a tense but controlled conversation. Charlotte announces her return from America and her desire to buy a wedding present for Maggie with the Prince's help. The Prince, wary of their past intimacy, is relieved when Charlotte maintains a public, safe tone. They discuss Charlotte's failure to marry in America and her contentment with her single life, while the Prince encourages her to marry. Mrs. Assingham returns, and the conversation ends with arrangements for Charlotte to visit the Prince to select the gift.

Free preview

40 more chapter companions sit beside the text in BetterReads — open a free preview to unlock the rest.

40 more companions → free preview

The Golden Bowl

Book First: The Prince

I

Chapter II

III