How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
She began to look upon Hurstwood wholly as a man, and not as a lover or husband. She felt thoroughly bound to him as a wife, and that her lot was cast with his, whatever it might be; but she began to see that he was gloomy and taciturn, not a young, strong, and buoyant man. He looked a little bit old to her about the eyes and mouth now, and there were other things which placed him in his true rank, so far as her estimation was concerned. She began to feel that she had made a mistake. (33.31)
So we've all heard of husbands trading in their aging wives for younger models (such a gross turn of phrase), but here Carrie expresses her discontent that Hurstwood is looking more and more like a senior citizen. We might say that the novel in this way dispels the myth that it's only superficial men who allow the fading appearances of their partners to negatively affect their marital satisfaction.
Quote #8
"You haven't done a thing for three months except sit around and interfere here. I'd like to know what you married me for?"
"I didn't marry you," he said, in a snarling tone. (36.95-96)
Bombshell. How does this information affect our views of Carrie's subsequent interactions with Hurstwood? Do you think Carrie has less of an obligation to help Hurstwood out later on in the novel given that they're not legally married? Why or why not?
Quote #9
Curiously this idea soon took hold of Hurstwood. His vanishing sum suggested that he would need sustenance. Why could not Carrie assist him a little until he could get something? (37.37)
Okay—so they're not technically married. But Hurstwood seems to have no trouble assuming the role of house husband and having Carrie support him. Does this make him progressive?