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Hard Times, Chapter 7 summary

Chapter 7 of 37 · Book 1: Sowing · 10 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 7, Mrs. Sparsit’s family history and breakfast conversation show how Bounderby uses her high connections to magnify his own success. Mr. Gradgrind takes Cecilia Jupe into his household, requires her to abandon discussion of her former life, and condemns the imaginative stories she reads to her father.

What happens

  1. Mrs. Sparsit’s marriage leaves her short of money, and conflict with Lady Scadgers helps drive her into paid employment.
  2. Bounderby boasts about his hardships by contrasting them with Mrs. Sparsit’s privileged upbringing.
  3. At breakfast, Bounderby discusses the tumbling girl and his plan to employ young Tom after his education.
  4. Mr. Gradgrind and Louisa arrive, and Bounderby scolds Cecilia Jupe for overlooking Mrs. Sparsit.
  5. Gradgrind accepts Cecilia into his household but forbids discussion of her former life and rejects her imaginative reading.
  6. Cecilia leaves with the Gradgrinds for Stone Lodge, while Louisa remains silent throughout the journey.

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In this chapter

LouisaGradgrindBounderbyTomMrs. Sparsit

What to notice

Gradgrind presents Cecilia as someone who needs correction. His offer of a home also imposes authority over her education and memories.

Quick check

What work does Gradgrind assign Cecilia outside school hours?

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