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NAPOLEONIC WARS
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4. HF - HMS SURPRISE - CHAPTER 4 (74 - 97) (04/18/11 - 04/24/11) ~ No spoilers, please
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"And if I find another raw egg beaten up in rum on the tray, Bonden, I shall fling it at your head." Chapter 4 shows off O'Brian's humor. I really thought all the characters' attempting to 'help' Stephen during his disability hilarious, as were Stephen's cranky responses, especially Sir Joseph's eagerness to suggest the healing waters of Bath and mortification at
Stephen's ferocious response.
I also thought this Chapter developed the idea that the book is, among other things, about Stephen and Jack's taking care of each other, which is a pretty weak way of putting it, since they go to extraordinary lengths for each other. Previously, Jack risked his life to save Stephen from torture. In Chapter 4, Stephen pulls every string he can to get Jack a ship, and, notwithstanding Jack is in prison for debt, engineer a visit with Sophie. What did you think? What is your impression. so far, of Jack and Stephen's relationship?
The constriction of the lives of females in early 19th century British society (or at least as depicted by O'Brian) as evidenced in Sophie's visit with Jack made a big impression on me. The way her every move had to be plotted and how she was assumed to have no competence to care for herself, even in the smallest way, was made very clear. What was your impression?
Also, Sir Joseph came across as rather more manipulative than friendly. His conversation with Mr. Waring evaluating Stephen's personal history and usefulness as an agent was pretty callous. I was also struck by what a lecher he was in the scene with Sophie, and gratified by Stephen's entirely appropriate coldness. What did you think?
Please feel free to comment on these points or anything else you found interesting in Chapter 4.
Stephen's ferocious response.
I also thought this Chapter developed the idea that the book is, among other things, about Stephen and Jack's taking care of each other, which is a pretty weak way of putting it, since they go to extraordinary lengths for each other. Previously, Jack risked his life to save Stephen from torture. In Chapter 4, Stephen pulls every string he can to get Jack a ship, and, notwithstanding Jack is in prison for debt, engineer a visit with Sophie. What did you think? What is your impression. so far, of Jack and Stephen's relationship?
The constriction of the lives of females in early 19th century British society (or at least as depicted by O'Brian) as evidenced in Sophie's visit with Jack made a big impression on me. The way her every move had to be plotted and how she was assumed to have no competence to care for herself, even in the smallest way, was made very clear. What was your impression?
Also, Sir Joseph came across as rather more manipulative than friendly. His conversation with Mr. Waring evaluating Stephen's personal history and usefulness as an agent was pretty callous. I was also struck by what a lecher he was in the scene with Sophie, and gratified by Stephen's entirely appropriate coldness. What did you think?
Please feel free to comment on these points or anything else you found interesting in Chapter 4.
Mod
Yes, females had to be very very careful during that time period because once one's reputation was besmirched; it was beyond repair. Yet the male could roam free.
I do think that a woman of marriageable age was fair game for this sort of behavior..and that is another reason for the intermediaries to stop short any of these unwanted overtures.
I feel like I am beginning to know these characters very well like members of my family (lol).
Welcome to the group discussion of the book HMS Surprise by Patrick O'Brian. This discussion is being led by Assisting Moderator - Christopher Tolley.
During the week of April 18 – April 24 we are reading:
Week Four - April 18 - April 24 - Chapter 4 - p.74-97
This thread will discuss the following:
Week Four - April 18 - April 24 - Chapter 4 - p.74-97
Remember, these weekly non spoiler threads are just that - non spoiler. There are many other threads where "spoiler information" can be placed including the glossary and any of the other supplemental threads.
We will open up a thread for each week's reading. Please make sure to post in the particular thread dedicated to those specific chapters and page numbers to avoid spoilers. We will also open up supplemental threads as we have done for other spotlighted reads.
We look forward to your participation. Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other noted on line booksellers do have copies of the book and shipment can be expedited. The book can also be obtained easily at your local library, on iTunes for the ipad, Audible etc. There are also downloadable eBook versions available. However, be careful, if you do go for an audible version that some audible formats are abridged and not unabridged.
There is still time remaining to obtain the book and get started. There is no rush and we are thrilled to have you join us. It is never too late to get started and/or to post.
Welcome,
Bentley
Attached is the link to the full TOC and Syllabus:
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/5...
Here is a link to the Introduction Thread for this book:
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/5...
And here is the link to the glossary which is a spoiler thread where anything can be discussed regarding the book including historical events, famous people, locations, naval history depicted in the novel and the like.
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/5...