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Unit 9: Charles Lamb-A Bachelors Complaint on the Behaviour of Married ...

doing so, separates himself from the “Married People.” He talks about Married People as if Notes
they are despicable and offensive and gives both hypothetical and personal examples to back
up his points. He believes that Married People “prefer one another to all the world” and
openly flaunt it, thus offending singles such as Lamb by implying that they “are not the
object of this preference.” Furthermore, Lamb believes that overall, singles are looked down
onMarried People are undoubtedly more favored and knowledgeable.
• The structure of Lamb’s argument logically appeals to his readers, for it flows and clarifies
his points through examples. However, Lamb fails to address any possible counter arguments.
His argument addresses only the negative aspects of Married People, but surely there are
positive sides as well. By failing to address and disprove these possibilities, Lamb leaves
room for doubt. Despite this, his argument stands strong. The examples he gives are cogent
and, through his personal anecdotes, he is able to establish a connection with the audience.
He also appeals emotionally especially to the singles, for he is a bachelor himself. The injustice
that he sometimes feels can appeal to others who have felt the same way. Overall, Lamb
appeals effectively to his readers through his use of pathos, ethos, and logos. Although there
are some flaws in his arguments, they are overlooked and undermined by his credibility and
emotional appeal.
• Overall, “A Bachelor’s Complaint of the Behavior of Married People” is effectively portrayed
through Lamb’s arguments and claims. His complaints are easy to understand, thanks to the
examples that he gives. He makes many good points about Married People, and most likely
is able to persuade many readers of his views. Although I personally am more skeptical of
his views, it is because I am also biased. I think of love as one of the most important and
potent feelings, but not everybody thinks of love as strongly as I do. Despite my views, I still
think that Lamb’s points are overall strong and assertive. I feel that the connection he makes
with his readers is also very effective, and I believe his argument will continue to affect
people of today, as marriage is a large part of society.

9.3 Key-Words
1. Flaunt : display ostentatiously especially in order to provoke envy or admiration or to
show defiance
2. Despicable : Worthy of being despised; contemptible; mean
9.4 Review Questions

1. Explore Lamb’s specific complaints about married couples here. How can you tell the extent to
which he is serious or is exaggerating for comic effect?
2. Would unmarried friends today offer similar complaints about their married friends and their
children? Are there any additional complaints that are pertinent to contemporary life?
3. Write an essay in which you describe some chronic complaints of your own relating to the
behavior of a certain group of people that you number among your friends.
Answers: Self-Assessment
1. (i)(c) (ii)(d)
9.5 Further Readings

1. Life of Charles Lamb, E.V. Lucas, G.P. Putman and Sons, London, 1905.
2. Young Charles Lamb, by winifred courtney, New York University Press, 1982.
3. Essays by Charles Lamb.

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