David Copperfield, Chapter 54 summary
Chapter 54 of 64 · 24 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 54, Copperfield mourns his wife while Traddles reports that Mr. Wickfield can leave business honorably and Miss Trotwood’s missing money is recovered. The friends arrange support for the Micawbers’ emigration, Agnes proposes a school, and Copperfield accompanies his aunt to her husband’s burial, learning why Heep’s threat no longer matters.
What happens
- Copperfield prepares to travel abroad and returns to Canterbury with Agnes and his aunt to hear Traddles’s findings.
- The Micawbers accept emigration, while Traddles reports Mr. Wickfield’s recovery and Agnes proposes supporting her father through a school.
- Traddles confirms the recovery of Miss Trotwood’s five thousand pounds, and she reveals another two thousand kept in reserve.
- The friends arrange the Micawbers’ passage, supplies, money, and debt payments; an immediate arrest demonstrates Heep’s continuing interference.
- Back near London, Miss Trotwood takes Copperfield to her husband’s burial and explains her recent secret visits.
- A letter announces another arrest for Mr. Micawber, but its postscript reports that Traddles pays the debt and costs.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Miss Trotwood’s husband’s death removes the leverage behind Heep’s threat. The words also reveal that her apparent composure conceals grief and concern for him.
Quick check
How does Agnes propose to support herself and her father?
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