What Happens to David Copperfield in Chapters 13–15?

TL;DR

In Chapters 13 to 15 of David Copperfield, David endures a tough journey to Dover, ultimately finding refuge with his Aunt Betsey, who becomes his guardian. She confronts David's mistreaters, the Murdstones, supports his education, and arranges for him to attend Doctor Strong's school, marking a positive shift in his life.

Transcript

in Chapter 13 of David Copperfield David walks to Dover selling his waistcoat and jacket on the way in order to buy food and he sleeps outdoors under haystacks and in parks at one point he's accosted by a belligerent tinker who demands his money and then steals David's silk handkerchief after six days David arrives at Miss Betsy's cottage in Dover ... Read More

Key Insights

• 😪 David's journey to Miss Betsy's cottage involves selling his belongings and sleeping outdoors.
• 🥺 Miss Betsy's initial observations of David lead her to sympathize with him.
• ❓ Mr. Dick, an eccentric but valuable advisor to Miss Betsy, is writing an autobiography.
• 🏘️ Miss Betsy confronts the Murdstones, accusing them of mistreating David and chasing them out of her house.
• 🥡 Miss Betsy becomes David's guardian, taking him in as Trotwood Copperfield.
• 👶 David settles into his new life at the cottage and is pleased with his new room and situation.
• 👨‍🏫 Miss Betsy consults with Mr. Wickfield about the best school for David, leading them to choose Doctor Strong's school in Canterbury.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does David sustain himself during his journey to Dover?

David sells his jacket and waistcoat to buy food along the way, and during nights, he sleeps under haystacks and in parks.

Q: Who does David meet at Miss Betsy's cottage?

David meets Miss Betsy, his aunt, who is working in her garden, and introduces himself, sharing his journey and history with her.

Q: Why does Miss Betsy chase donkeys away from her front lawn?

Miss Betsy chases donkeys away from her front lawn because they are causing a disturbance, interrupting her conversation with David.

Q: What does Miss Betsy declare about David's guardianship?

Miss Betsy declares that she and Mr. Dick will be joint guardians of David, and she plans to change his name to Trotwood Copperfield.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• David walks to Dover, selling his jacket and waistcoat to buy food, and sleeps outdoors during his six-day journey.

• He arrives at Miss Betsy's cottage in Dover and introduces himself, sharing his history and bursting into tears.

• Miss Betsy questions him, expresses her sympathy, chases away donkeys from her lawn, and declares herself as his guardian.