The Affects of Beauty and Goodness
A Summary Chapters 5-11 in The House of Seven Gables
Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, The House of Seven Gables, weaves the past with the present. The following chapters discussed talk of young Phoebe and old Clifford.
Phoebe Lightens the Atmosphere
In the morning, it is revealed that Phoebe’s presence is like a breath of fresh air in the dismal, mildewed mansion. At breakfast, Hepzibah tells Phoebe that she must leave but the girl disregards the comment saying that she will work for her keep. Hepzibah then tells Phoebe of Clifford’s impending arrival. Phoebe had thought that her cousin was dead and looks with interest on the miniature of Clifford that Hepzibah produces. When the shop bell rings, Phoebe helps the customer, much to Hepzibah’s relief.
Phoebe Meets Holgrave
At the end of the day, Phoebe retires to the garden. There she is surprised by Hepzibah’s boarder, Holgrave. The two visit and Holgrave shows Phoebe a daguerreotype his has made of the Judge, which Phoebe mistakes for the Colonel. They visit for awhile but Phoebe finds him disturbing and remains reserved.
When Holgrave departs, he warns her not to drink from or bathe in Maule’s Well, saying that it is bewitched. When Phoebe returns to the house, she wishes Hepzibah a goodnight. She has the feeling that someone is sitting in the room with Hepzibah although she doesn’t see the person. The feeling that there is another in the house stays with Phoebe all night.
Phoebe and Clifford
In the morning, Phoebe awakes and finds Hepzibah in the kitchen trying to prepare breakfast. She gracefully assumes the duties. When Clifford shuffles in to breakfast, Hepzibah introduces Phoebe and they begin to eat. Clifford remains disinterested in the meal until he drinks the coffee, which he drinks with enthusiasm asking for more. He notices the scowl on Hepzibah’s face and asks if she is angry with him. She says all she feels for him is love but he still avoids looking at her as his intellectual love of beauty finds her features repugnant while Phoebe is fresh and beautiful, therefore, pleasing to him.
While they eat, the shop bell rings and Phoebe leaves to take care of the customer. Hepzibah explains to Clifford that they are poor and the shop is necessary for their survival. She then apologizes profusely for shaming the family. Clifford then apologizes for his previous disapproval and he begins to cry; he then drifts off to sleep.
During Clifford’s first day home, the Judge visits the shop. While visiting, he meets Phoebe who he attempts to kiss. Phoebe senses that he is not to be trusted and pulls away from him. A brief glimpse of the Judge’s anger is seen, which he then glosses over with a sunny smile.
After a brief visit between the Judge and Phoebe, Hepzibah enters the shop and prevents him from entering the house. A cry of alarm from Clifford asking them to not let the Judge in angers the Judge who denies any ill intentions and asks when they will accept his generous assistance. After he leaves Hepzibah rails against him and his evil ways. Phoebe is confused by the day and wonders what past events have caused such anger in Hepzibah.
The next three chapters describe the relationship of Phoebe and Clifford. Clifford is most alive in Phoebe’s presence and is discontented if he cannot see her or at least hear her. While the depression and sorrow of the household is hard for Phoebe, she continues in her happy homemaking ways and the three settle into a routine.
Their pleasures include time in the garden and time at the window above busy Pyncheon Street. During these chapters, we learn of Clifford’s inability to interact with people and the present and his overwhelming nostalgia for the past.
More About The House of Seven Gables
Book Review of The House of Seven Gables
Summary of the Prelude and First Chapters
