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Doctor Thorne


Synopsis


'Frank has but one duty before him. He must marry money.' The squire of Greshamsbury has fallen on hard times, and it is incumbent on his son Frank to make a good marriage. But Frank loves the doctor's niece, Mary Thorne, a girl with no money and mysterious parentage. He faces a terrible dilemma: should he save the estate, or marry the girl he loves? Mary, too, has to battle her feelings, knowing that marrying Frank would ruin his family and fly in the face of his mother's opposition. Her pride is matched by that of her uncle, Dr Thorne, who has to decide whether to reveal a secret that would resolve Frank's difficulty, or to uphold the innate merits of his own family heritage. The character of Dr Thorne reflects Trollope's own contradictory feelings about the value of tradition and the need for change. His subtle portrayal, and the comic skill and gentle satire with which the story is developed, are among the many pleasures of this delightful novel. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Anthony Trollope (author), Simon Dentith (editor)

Summary

Chapter 1: The Thorne Family

The chapter introduces the Thorne family, consisting of Dr. Thomas Thorne, his wife Mary, and their three daughters: Mary, Beatrice, and Patience. Dr. Thorne is a respected physician in the small town of Greshamsbury, but his finances are limited. Mary is a beautiful and kind-hearted eldest daughter, while Beatrice is mischievous and independent. Patience, the youngest, is quiet and observant.

Chapter 2: The De Courcys

The chapter introduces the De Courcy family, wealthy landowners in Greshamsbury. Colonel De Courcy is a pompous and arrogant man, while his wife is vain and superficial. They have two children: Frank, who is engaged to Mary Thorne, and Lady Arabella, who is proud and dismissive.

Chapter 3: Lady Arabella's Curiosity

Lady Arabella, out of boredom, decides to pay a visit to the Thornes. She interrogates Mary about Frank's feelings and openly expresses her disdain for Dr. Thorne's family. Frank and Mary are embarrassed by her behavior, and Mary stands up to her.

Chapter 4: Sir Roger Scatcherd

The chapter introduces Sir Roger Scatcherd, a wealthy widower who is attracted to Mary. He proposes to her, but she refuses, much to the disappointment of her parents, who believe his wealth would solve their financial problems. Sir Roger is outraged and vows revenge.

Chapter 5: Frank De Courcy's Doubts

Frank, torn between his love for Mary and the expectations of his family, begins to have doubts about their engagement. Lady Arabella fuels these doubts by spreading rumors about Mary's supposed financial problems. Frank confronts Mary, and they agree to postpone their wedding until he can clear up the misunderstandings.

Chapter 6: The Box of Secrets

Dr. Thorne discovers a box of letters hidden in his late father's study. These letters reveal that his father was secretly married to a woman named Martha Dunstable, and that Mary is their illegitimate daughter. Dr. Thorne confronts Mary, who is shocked by the revelation but accepts it with grace.

Chapter 7: The Will

Dr. Thorne, now knowing Mary's true parentage, alters his will to leave her his entire estate, much to the dismay of his wife and other daughters. He also arranges for Mary to inherit a large fortune from Martha Dunstable.

Chapter 8: The Reconciliation

Frank, after learning the truth about Mary's parentage, realizes the depth of his love for her. He confronts his parents and breaks off his engagement to Lady Arabella. Frank and Mary are reunited and eventually marry.

Chapter 9: The Epilogue

Several years later, the Thornes are happily married and living in prosperity. They have a daughter, also named Mary, who inherits the beauty and kindness of her mother. The De Courcy family, having been humbled by their loss, are reconciled with the Thornes.