In Chapter 15 of “Goodbye, Mr. Chips,” the story unfolds against the backdrop of wartime. The school is under an air-raid warning, and as the air raid sirens wail and guns fire, Mr. Chipping (Chips) continues teaching his lower-fourth Latin class. The students are nervous, and the explosions make it challenging for them to focus. Despite the chaos outside, Mr. Chips remains calm and continues with the Latin lesson, emphasizing the enduring importance of studying classical subjects even in the face of contemporary turmoil.
Chips uses humor to lighten the tense atmosphere, referring to the ongoing war as the work of a “stink-merchant in his laboratory inventing a new kind of mischief.” The students, familiar with the nickname for the science master, chuckle nervously. As explosions rock the building, Chips encourages the students to carry on with their studies, asserting that the timeless knowledge they are gaining will not be snuffed out by the current disturbances.
The chapter showcases Mr. Chips’ dedication to teaching and his ability to maintain composure in challenging circumstances. It also highlights the resilience of the students and the school community as they continue their studies despite the immediate threat of war.