💡The old woman's concern for Mr. Bounderby implies a maternal connection.
🤔Stephen's assessment of his marriage: he is married to a 'dead' woman.
🕰️Rachel's unmarried status is partly due to Stephen.
🔍The old woman's mystery and her interest in Mr. Bounderby intrigue Stephen.
💔Stephen can no longer understand or relate to his abusive wife.
Who is the old woman in chapter 12 of Hard Times?
—The old woman is a mysterious figure who appears to have a long-standing relationship with Mr. Bounderby.
What does the old woman ask Stephen about?
—The old woman asks Stephen about Mr. Bounderby's appearance, health, and prosperity.
Why does the old woman insist on kissing Stephen's hand?
—The old woman insists on kissing Stephen's hand as a gesture of gratitude for his work in Bounderby's factory.
How does Stephen feel about his marriage?
—Stephen feels trapped in a miserable marriage and reflects on his inability to escape it.
What impact has Stephen had on Rachel's unmarried status?
—Stephen's influence has contributed to Rachel remaining unmarried.
00:09Chapter 12 introduces the encounter between Stephen and the old woman outside Mr. Bounderby's office.
01:00The old woman's questions about Mr. Bounderby's well-being suggest a maternal connection.
01:13Stephen reflects on his unhappy marriage and its impact on Rachel's unmarried status.
01:20The old woman's mystery and interest in Mr. Bounderby intrigue Stephen.
01:26Stephen describes his wife as a 'dead woman' and is unable to relate to her abusive behavior.
