Chapter 12 Summary

"Change of Life"

"Change of Life" details how after Freddie's death, (and after what will be revealed as her abortion) Mary Metcalfe locked herself in her father's house, remaining inside and away from the world for 3 years. Tom and Mary resumed their relationship later by letter, and are ultimately married.

Chapter 12 Analysis

Swift through Tom Crick examines both the sexual and religious implications of this chapter title. The marriage of Tom and Mary is seen as a part of Destiny, and the future history teachers wife, is described by Tom Crick ironically, in his suggestion that no family leaves no history, given that they are childless.