The Old Wives’ Tale · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for The Old Wives’ Tale by Arnold Bennett.

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Chapter 1
Dedication
The book is dedicated to W. W. K.
Chapter 2
The Old Wives’ Tale
The chapter introduces the Baines family and their life in the provincial town of Bursley, focusing on the two sisters Constance and Sophia, their contrasting personalities, and the early signs of their divergent paths.
Chapter 3
Book I: Mrs. Baines
The chapter introduces the Baines household and the two sisters, Constance and Sophia, living above their mother's drapery shop in Bursley. Mrs. Baines, the widowed matriarch, manages the shop and family with authority. The chapter establishes the provincial setting, the daily rhythms of the shop, and the contrasting personalities of the sisters—Constance dutiful and content, Sophia restless and yearning for more. The arrival of the new assistant, Mr. Povey, and the presence of Mr. Critchlow hint at future developments.
Chapter 4
The Square
Constance and Sophia Baines observe their servant Maggie Hollins on her Thursday afternoon outing, mocking her new clothes and romantic rendezvous. Later, in the showroom, Sophia playfully tries on their mother's new gown, only to be interrupted by Mr. Povey, who enters in apparent pain. The chapter also reflects on the outdated fashions and provincial life of the era.
Chapter 5
II: The Tooth
Sophia and Constance serve tea to Mr. Povey and Mr. Critchlow. Mr. Povey, still recovering from laudanum, accidentally swallows a loose tooth while eating mussels, unaware that Sophia had secretly extracted it earlier. Sophia's suppressed laughter leads to a hysterical outburst, highlighting the tension between youthful mischief and domestic propriety.

Dedication

The Old Wives’ Tale

Book I: Mrs. Baines

The Square

II: The Tooth