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Chapter 18: Legally Mad
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Lessons in Chemistry, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Gender Inequality
Science vs. Religion
Overcoming Tragedy and Trauma
Family
Summary
Analysis
Madeline’s upbringing is a balance of exploration and safety: Elizabeth encourages her to experiment and discover her surroundings, and Harriet and Six-Thirty ensure that she stays out of danger. Gradually, Elizabeth and Madeline develop a deep bond, filled with mutual love and learning.
Because Madeline does not have a father, Harriet acts as her second parent. Elizabeth raises her daughter with a scientific mindset—experimentation is key, and failure is a necessary part of experimentation.
Themes
A year after Madeline's birth, Dr. Mason follows through on his promise and visits to check on Elizabeth. He extends an invitation for her to join the rowing team again. Elizabeth is taken aback, citing her busy schedule, but Dr. Mason humorously points out that she couldn't be busy at 4:30 a.m., the team’s rowing time. Surprisingly, Harriet agrees to babysit Madeline during these early hours, eager for a respite from her own troubled home life. The other rowers respond to Elizabeth’s return to the rowing team with skepticism and coldness. However, Dr. Mason reassures her of her competence and encourages her to continue rowing with the team.
Unlike Elizabeth’s colleagues, who offer words of support but never follow through, Dr. Mason comes through on his promise. However, his suggestion is that Elizabeth continue to push herself beyond where she is comfortable. Despite her situation, Elizabeth rises to the challenge and puts herself in an environment where she knows she is unlikely to feel welcome. Without Calvin to shield her, the rowing team appears especially hostile (with the exception of Dr. Mason).
Themes
