Summary

In Chapter 16, “Alexandria to Gibraltar: Astley’s Bitter Wisdom,” Bella was so upset by her experiences in Alexandria, she turned to Wedder when she returned. He dismissed her concerns, too distracted by the revelation that she had taken his money.

Meanwhile, Astley tried convincing Bella that suffering and evil were necessary. To keep track of everything Astley taught her and everything she wanted to change, Bella listed Astley’s lessons in her letter. She detailed his thoughts on women of leisure, educating the poor, the benefits of war, social classes, freedom, and self-government (160, 162). When Astley’s ideas upset Bella, he offered to marry and give her children and the chance to be happy, good, and intelligent (163). Bella refused because she was engaged and did not love Astley. Instead, she decided to become a Socialist.

Bella’s memories of God kept her horror and...