The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Complete, Chapter 2 summary
Chapter 2 of 35 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Tom Sawyer turns the chore of whitewashing a fence into a privilege that other boys pay to enjoy, after his attempt to exchange jobs with Jim fails. By presenting the task as rare and demanding, he gains leisure and possessions while the narrator explains how difficulty and choice shape desire.
What happens
- Tom faces a large fence and tries to persuade Jim to exchange chores, but Aunt Polly interrupts.
- When Ben Rogers approaches, Tom treats whitewashing as an absorbing pleasure rather than an unwanted job.
- Tom claims the fence requires unusual skill, making Ben eager enough to offer his whole apple for a turn.
- Billy Fisher, Johnny Miller, and other boys trade possessions to take over the brush while Tom rests.
- By midafternoon, the fence has three coats, Tom has many treasures, and the whitewash runs out.
- The narrator distinguishes compulsory work from freely chosen play, and Tom heads back to report.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Tom presents an unwanted chore as an uncommon opportunity. This change in presentation draws Ben into wanting the work.
Quick check
What does Ben give Tom for a turn at whitewashing?
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