David Copperfield, Chapter 22 summary

What happens

1. David visits his parents’ grave and his altered childhood home while Steerforth spends time sailing and entertaining fishermen.
2. David finds Steerforth distressed about his upbringing, but Steerforth dismisses his fears and reveals his boat purchase.
3. Steerforth plans to rename the boat for Emily, whose uneasy manner beside Ham David finds charming.
4. Miss Mowcher treats Steerforth’s hair, mocks fashionable hypocrisy, and hears him suggest that Emily deserves a higher social position.
5. David learns that Martha Endell seeks Emily’s help to escape the town’s rejection and go to London.
6. Emily gives Martha money supplied by Ham, then begs for help becoming more grateful before accepting comfort and leaving close beside him.

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What to notice

Steerforth’s admission reveals distress beneath his confident manner. David hears him acknowledge a failure of self-control without receiving a clear explanation.

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