Little Dorrit, Chapter 36 summary
Chapter 36 of 70 · Book 1: Poverty · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 36, Mr. Dorrit prepares to leave the Marshalsea with his newly wealthy family, distributing gifts while insisting on his changed social position. The farewell exposes the family's dependence on Amy when they reach their carriage without her, and Arthur Clennam carries her out unconscious after finding her alone in her room.
What happens
- Mr. Dorrit treats Mr. Rugg and the Marshal harshly, while his family acquires fashionable clothes and Edward repays Clennam through solicitors.
- The Collegians present a farewell address, and Mr. Dorrit gives money and a feast, weeping when they cheer him.
- Before departure, William urges Frederick to behave suitably and reflect on how the prisoners can manage without him.
- The family passes through the gathered crowd and reaches its carriage before anyone notices Amy is missing.
- Clennam carries Amy out unconscious in her old dress, and Fanny shifts from indignation to tearful concern as they depart.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence exposes how thoroughly the family relies on Amy without attending to her needs. Their ceremonial departure breaks down because they fail to notice her absence.
Quick check
Where does Clennam find Amy before carrying her to the carriage?
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