Chapter 31 Summary

When Eleanor arrives home in Barchester, a new development has taken place. The Dean of Barchester Cathedral has had a stroke and is not expected to live. As the news spreads through the town, rumors begin to surface about who will be appointed to the deanery if and when the present dean dies. Many of the conservatives, including the Archdeacon, worry that Mr. Slope might be chosen to be the new dean. Because they do not know of the split between Mr. Slope and Mrs. Proudie, they consider him to still have the complete backing of the Bishop. Many famous doctors are called in to assist the dean, who lingers on for another few weeks.

Chapter 31 Analysis

While the last chapter ended with rumors about Eleanor still in circulation, this chapter opens with a new item for the gossip mill. The possible appointment...