Chapter 56 Summary

Steerforth's body is brought home to his mother. David tries to explain what happened. An emotional scene follows this explanation. Rosa Dartle declares her love for Steerforth and states her anger at Mrs. Steerforth for making him what he was. She is bitter that Mrs. Steerforth has fought with her son for so long, only to be reunited with him by death.

Chapter 56 Analysis

Rosa Dartle's statements to Mrs. Steerforth show a very interesting perspective. She argues that his mother created Steerforth by allowing him to do whatever he wanted, and is therefore ultimately responsible for whatever Steerforth did. Her declarations of love are surprising, although they match the admiration that everyone else held for him. David's own feelings toward Steerforth remain positive despite all the pain that Steerforth has caused.