David Copperfield, Chapter 24 summary
Chapter 24 of 64 · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 24, Copperfield tries to relieve the loneliness of his independent life by entertaining Steerforth and two friends, but he drinks heavily and embarrasses himself at the theater. Agnes asks him to leave, and the next day his pleasure in hosting gives way to physical misery, shame, and fear about his conduct.
What happens
- Copperfield enjoys having rooms of his own but feels lonely, especially in the evenings, and misses Agnes.
- He visits Mrs. Steerforth and Miss Dartle, then welcomes Steerforth the next morning and arranges dinner for him and two friends.
- Mrs. Crupp organizes outside food and extra help, but the waiter drinks and the girl breaks plates.
- Copperfield drinks heavily, praises Steerforth, argues briefly with Markham, and becomes confused and unsteady.
- At the theater, Agnes sees his condition and asks him to leave with his friends.
- Steerforth helps him undress, and Copperfield spends the following day suffering from sickness, remorse, and embarrassment.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The drunken declaration makes Copperfield’s intense admiration explicit. His wish to impress and entertain Steerforth helps drive the celebration.
Quick check
What does Agnes ask Copperfield to do at the theater?
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