The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
Conclusion explained
The final chapter resolves the fates of the Brattle family.
What happens
The final chapter resolves the fates of the Brattle family. Sam Brattle returns to work at the mill and marries Agnes Pope, who is accepted into the household after initial resistance from his father. The miller, though he forgives his daughter Carry, remains burdened by the disgrace and lives in retirement. Mr. Fenwick continues to visit the mill but fails to convert the miller, who faces death without fear. Harry Gilmore is reported to be expected home after years away.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Resolution.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it represents the emotional and psychological peak of the confl…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Family Duty and Forgiveness
The miller forgives Carry and accepts Sam's marriage, but the family's dynamic is shaped by unspoken shame and duty.
- Justice and Prejudice
Sam reflects on the near-miscarriage of justice in his trial, highlighting the flaws in the legal system.
- Redemption and the Fallen Woman
Carry is forgiven and reintegrated into the family, but her prospects remain limited by her past.
Characters to notice
- Sam Brattle
Returns to the mill, works daily, marries Agnes Pope, and is accepted back into the family.
- Carry Brattle
Lives at the mill, forgiven by her father but resigned to a life without marriage.
- George Brattle
The miller forgives Carry but remains haunted by shame; he refuses religious conversion and faces death stoically.
- Fanny Brattle
The dutiful daughter who knows her father best and observes his unspoken grief.
- Mr. Fenwick
Marries Sam and Agnes, continues to visit the mill, and attempts to convert the miller without success.
- Harry Gilmore
Has been away from Bullhampton for years but is expected to return home.
Key passages
“There is nothing further left to be told of this story of the village of Bullhampton and its Vicar beyond what may be necessary to satisfy the reader as to the condition and future prospects of the Brattle family.”
The story concludes with only the Brattle family's fate left to be revealed.
Opening statement signaling the chapter's purpose.
“It was well said, Sam. Yes; though thou be'est my own, it was well said.”
The miller praises Sam's testimony at the trial, acknowledging his son's honesty.
The miller's first and only comment on the trial, showing pride in Sam.
“I've struv' to be honest, and I've wrought for my wife and bairns. I ain't been a drunkard, nor yet, as I knows on, neither a talebearer, nor yet a liar.”
The miller defends his life as honest and hardworking, rejecting the need for religious change.
The miller's final stance on faith, emphasizing his moral integrity.
