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David Copperfield, Chapter 19 summary

Chapter 19 of 64 · 27 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 19, David leaves school without choosing a profession, and his aunt sends him traveling alone to develop judgment and independence. After discussing Mr. Wickfield’s decline with Agnes and growing suspicious of Annie Strong, he travels to London, feels painfully inexperienced, and joyfully meets Steerforth again.

What happens

  1. David’s aunt postpones his choice of profession and funds a solitary trip, asking him to think independently and write regularly.
  2. In Canterbury, Agnes asks about her father’s worsening condition, and David describes his distress around business with Uriah.
  3. At Doctor Strong’s house, Jack Maldon’s letters and Mr. Wickfield’s behavior lead David to suspect Annie, without establishing wrongdoing.
  4. David leaves Canterbury, loses his prized coach seat, and feels that hotel servants treat him as an inexperienced boy.
  5. A performance at Covent Garden Theatre delights David, who returns to his hotel absorbed in memories.
  6. David recognizes Steerforth, welcomes him emotionally, and receives a better room after his friend challenges the waiter.

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In this chapter

David CopperfieldAgnesUriah HeepSteerforth

What to notice

David connects his humiliation on the coach with his difficulty asserting himself. His wish to seem adult does not give him confidence.

Quick check

What does Steerforth arrange for David at the hotel?

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