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Agnes Grey, Chapter 23 summary

Chapter 23 of 25 · 6 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 23, Lady Ashby confides her hatred of Sir Thomas Ashby and describes a marriage marked by neglect, restrictions, and resentment. Miss Grey urges kindness, religious duty, care for her daughter, and friendship with her mother-in-law, but doubts her advice helps and leaves after completing her promised stay.

What happens

  1. Miss Grey waits alone for breakfast and company before Lady Ashby takes her toward the library and out for a walk.
  2. Sir Thomas Ashby rides past, and Lady Ashby declares that she hates and despises him.
  3. Lady Ashby describes her husband's neglect, accusations, spending, and insistence that she remain in the country.
  4. Miss Grey recommends gentle persuasion, personal integrity, religious duty, and comfort through caring for her daughter.
  5. Lady Ashby rejects devotion to her child as sufficient happiness, and Miss Grey urges friendship with her mother-in-law.
  6. Miss Grey completes her promised stay, refuses invitations to remain longer, and leaves with sorrow for Lady Ashby.

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What to notice

Miss Grey presents religion as practical guidance toward happiness. This directly counters Lady Ashby's belief that goodness offers little help to the young.

Quick check

What does Miss Grey advise Lady Ashby to do about her mother-in-law?

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