# Love and Control in The Uncalled

> Theme guide for The Uncalled by Paul Laurence Dunbar.

Relationships in the novel, such as Fred's with Elizabeth and Miss Prime, are often marked by control rather than genuine affection, with love used as a tool for manipulation or conformity.

## Where it surfaces

- [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/chapters/vii): Miss Prime and Rev. Simpson attempt to control Fred's spiritual and emotional life through religious pressure, while Fred's love for Elizabeth offers a counterforce of genuine feeling and personal growth.
- [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/chapters/viii): Eliphalet's unrequited love for Miss Prime is intertwined with her desire for independence and control over her own life and Fred's future.
- [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/chapters/x): Fred's love for Elizabeth is a softening influence, but her adherence to her father's views creates tension and control over his behavior.
- [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/chapters/xiv): Mrs. Hodges' love for Fred is intertwined with her pride and control; his leaving reveals the fragility of a love built on expectation.
- [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/chapters/xvii): Fred's relationship with Alice is portrayed as freeing and nurturing, contrasting with his earlier, more constrained feelings for Elizabeth.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/themes/love_and_control
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_uncalled_se/themes