Vanity Fair, Chapter 21 summary
Chapter 21 of 68 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Mr. Osborne pushes George toward the wealthy Miss Swartz, but her friendship with Amelia prompts George to defend his existing attachment openly. Father and son clash over obedience, money, and marriage, and George leaves the house declaring to Dobbin that he intends to marry Amelia the next day.
What happens
- Mr. Osborne and his daughters cultivate Miss Swartz, hoping her fortune can raise George’s social position.
- George resists his father’s marriage orders, using his regiment’s expected departure as a reason for delay.
- Miss Swartz finds Amelia’s name on some music and warmly asks about her, provoking the sisters’ insults.
- George defends Amelia before the guests and tells Miss Swartz that he loves Amelia and is engaged to her.
- After dinner, Mr. Osborne threatens to withdraw his support unless George abandons Amelia and accepts the wealthy match.
- George refuses, his father orders a coach, and George tells Dobbin he intends to marry Amelia tomorrow.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of La Foire aux vanités, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
George makes loyalty to Amelia a public test of friendship. His declaration openly challenges his sisters and brings his conflict with his father into view.
Quick check
What prompts Miss Swartz to ask about Amelia?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of La Foire aux vanités, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
