Tom vs. Becky: Jealousy and Reconciliation

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

The romantic conflict between Tom and Becky, marked by jealousy, pride, and eventual reconciliation.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Engagement and BreakupThe Engagement and Breakup from "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer". The First Quarrel The Proposal Tom and Becky become engaged after a kiss, but Tom's mention of Amy Lawrence causes Becky to cry.
The First Quarrel The Proposal Tom and Becky become engaged after a kiss, but Tom's mention of Amy Lawrence causes Becky to cry. She rejects his peace offering. The Stalemate Tom leaves school, and they are estranged. Becky regrets her harshness but is too proud to apologize. The Aftermath Tom's pirate adventure and return as a hero widen the gap, as he ignores Becky to spite her.
The Jealousy GameThe Jealousy Game from "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer". The Tit for Tat The Flirtation Tom flirts with Amy Lawrence to make Becky jealous. Becky retaliates by flirting with Alfred Temple. Both are hurt and angry.
The Tit for Tat The Flirtation Tom flirts with Amy Lawrence to make Becky jealous. Becky retaliates by flirting with Alfred Temple. Both are hurt and angry. The Spelling-Book Incident Alfred, angry at being used, pours ink on Tom's spelling-book. Becky sees it but decides not to tell, hoping Tom will be punished. The Whipping Tom is whipped for the ink, but he does not expose Becky. This act of chivalry begins their reconciliation.
The Cave OrdealThe Cave Ordeal from "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer". The Shared Crisis The Lost Children Tom and Becky become lost in McDougal's Cave. Their fear and dependence on each other erase past grievances.
The Shared Crisis The Lost Children Tom and Becky become lost in McDougal's Cave. Their fear and dependence on each other erase past grievances. Tom's Leadership Tom comforts Becky, finds water, and eventually discovers the exit. His courage and care for her deepen their bond. The Reconciliation After their rescue, Becky tells her father about Tom's noble lie. Their relationship is stronger than ever, and Tom's heroism wins her lasting love.
Early in the story
After the pirate adventure, mid-story
Late in the story