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Does Eustace Actually Love Muriel?

Published in Eustace and Muriel's Relationship 2 mins read

Yes, despite his often grumpy, self-centered, and seemingly emotionless demeanor, Eustace Bagge has indeed demonstrated a genuine love for his wife, Muriel. While not always outwardly apparent or "unbending," this affection is a discernible aspect of their complex relationship.

Understanding Eustace's Affection for Muriel

Eustace's love for Muriel is nuanced and not expressed in conventional romantic ways. His personality is largely characterized by selfishness and a general immunity to emotions, yet his actions in specific situations reveal a deeper connection and care for his wife.

Evidence of Genuine Love

Several key indicators point to Eustace's underlying affection:

  • Protective Instincts: On numerous occasions, when Muriel is in actual peril, Eustace displays protective instincts. He has been known to set aside his usual antagonism towards Courage and even ally with him to ensure Muriel's safety. These moments, often brief but impactful, highlight that her well-being is important to him.
  • Emotional Exceptions: While Eustace is generally depicted as being immune to a wide range of emotions, this seems to be a disposition rather than an absolute state. His genuine love for Muriel, along with a "soft spot for children that remind him of himself," serves as a notable exception to his emotional detachment. This suggests that while he may not express emotions broadly, he is capable of forming specific, strong attachments.

Contrasting Demeanor vs. Underlying Care

To better understand the dichotomy of Eustace's character, consider the contrast between his typical behavior and his moments of genuine care for Muriel:

Aspect Eustace's Typical Demeanor Eustace's Love for Muriel
Expression of Emotion Generally gruff, selfish, uncaring Shows genuine love, though not constant
Relationship with Courage Antagonistic, often abusive Will ally with Courage to protect Muriel
Responsibility Avoids responsibility, complains Reveals protective instincts for Muriel
Outward Affection Rarely shows physical or verbal affection Actions speak louder than words in moments of crisis

Eustace's affection for Muriel is not one that he openly parades or consistently maintains. Instead, it emerges in critical situations, demonstrating that beneath his often unpleasant exterior lies a deep-seated, albeit often hidden, concern and love for his wife.