Hard Times, Chapter 6 summary
Chapter 6 of 37 · Book 1: Sowing · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Sissy Jupe discovers that her father has disappeared, and the circus performers explain that his failing acts and public humiliation seem to drive him away. Thomas Gradgrind offers her care and education if she leaves the company behind, and she accepts while still expecting her father’s return.
What happens
- Sissy brings Gradgrind and Bounderby to her room, finds her father’s trunk empty, and rushes away to search for him.
- Childers explains that Jupe’s performances are failing and reports that he leaves secretly with a bundle.
- Gradgrind considers helping Sissy, although he originally comes to exclude her from school because of her circus connections.
- Sissy returns distraught, and the company comforts her while objecting to Bounderby’s harsh account of her abandonment.
- Gradgrind offers care and education without further contact with the company; Sleary offers an apprenticeship instead.
- Sissy chooses Gradgrind, keeps her father’s medicine, and leaves amid affectionate farewells and Sleary’s defense of entertainment.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Sissy’s attachment to the medicine shows that leaving the company does not end her trust in her father. She treats his return as certain despite the others’ conclusions.
Quick check
What condition does Gradgrind attach to taking charge of Sissy?
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