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David Copperfield, Chapter 18 summary

Chapter 18 of 64 · 13 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 18, Mr. Copperfield recalls his progress toward seventeen through school success, two disappointed romances, and fights with a bullying butcher. He becomes head boy, finds steady comfort in Agnes, and recovers from his passion for the eldest Miss Larkins after learning of her approaching marriage to Mr. Chestle.

What happens

  1. Mr. Copperfield rises at school and adores Miss Shepherd, but their attachment ends when she mocks him.
  2. Doctor Strong praises his scholarship, while a bullying butcher provokes him into a fight that he loses.
  3. Agnes comforts him during his recovery, and passing years bring him to the position of head boy.
  4. He becomes devoted to the eldest Miss Larkins and delights in dancing with her and exchanging flowers.
  5. Agnes announces Miss Larkins’s approaching marriage to Mr. Chestle, leaving him miserable for a week or two.
  6. He discards her flower, defeats the butcher in another fight, and resumes wearing his ring and hair grease.

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In this chapter

David CopperfieldAgnes

What to notice

Mr. Copperfield’s younger self feels almost like a stranger. The line connects his school advancement with his growing awareness of personal change.

Quick check

Whom does Agnes name as the eldest Miss Larkins’s intended husband?

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