The Whalebone Theatre

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Part 4Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 4: “Act Four: 1942-1943”

Part 4, Chapter 52 Summary: “Captives”

June 1942

The evacuees have left Chilcombe, and German prisoners of war are now living and working on the estate. Bill Brewer is often absent due to his involvement in the Home Guard, and Maudie is also away in Weymouth performing fire watch duties. Betty has been morose ever since Rosalind’s death. Flossie tends the vegetable garden at The Whalebone Theatre with the help of a German prisoner named Hans Krause. Despite the language barrier, there is a distinct chemistry between them. Flossie buys overalls to wear while working and no longer feels dissatisfied with her appearance.

Part 4, Chapter 53 Summary: “Flossie’s Diary”

July 1942

Flossie describes laughing with Hans and teaching him the songs from The Wizard of Oz. She starts selling her vegetables to a greengrocer in Dorchester. However, on the journey into town, Flossie is shocked by the hostile reception that Hans receives.

Part 4, Chapter 54 Summary: “Tempo Rubato”

August 1942

One evening, Flossie has the house to herself and shows Hans around. She plays the piano for him, and they hold hands as they walk to the beach. Hans runs into the sea naked, and Flossie follows in her underwear. Hans removes her headscarf, and they kiss.