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David Copperfield, Chapter 57 summary

Chapter 57 of 64 · 17 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 57, David keeps news of a recent catastrophe from the departing emigrants, helps resolve Mr. Micawber’s arrests, and joins their farewells before they sail for Australia. He discovers that Martha accompanies Mr. Peggotty, then watches Emily cling to her uncle as the ship carries them away.

What happens

  1. David asks Mr. Micawber to keep newspapers and news of the catastrophe away from Mr. Peggotty.
  2. Friends gather for punch and farewells, while David pays for Mr. Micawber’s release after an arrest.
  3. Mr. Micawber gives Traddles a promissory note, and Mrs. Micawber predicts that her husband can achieve distinction in Australia.
  4. At Gravesend, David learns of another arrest, repays Mr. Peggotty for settling it, and boards the crowded ship.
  5. David discovers Martha among the emigrants and delivers a farewell message without revealing the death behind it.
  6. David and Peggotty watch the ship depart, and Emily waves goodbye beside her uncle.

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In this chapter

David CopperfieldMr. MicawberMr. Peggotty

What to notice

Mr. Micawber accepts his wife’s hopeful picture of their family’s future. Their imagined prosperity contrasts with the debts and arrests surrounding departure.

Quick check

Who does David discover is travelling with Mr. Peggotty?

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