Motifs
Posted by Constanza on June 09, 1998 at 14:42:58:
In response to Hardship vs. indulgence, written by gkb on June 07, 1998 at 16:19:55
] Appearance of goodness vs. substance of goodness does seem to be a recurrent motif in many of the characters--Mary and Henry, Mrs. Norris, Maria and Julia, and even Mr. Yates. Perhaps there are more that I have not mentioned? What do other people think about this motif?
I not only agree but also believe that is the basis of the whole novel and one of the reasons many readers fell disappointed by the end, and wishing Fanny had taken Henry and Edmund remained with Mary.
Moreover, I think that there is a relation between appearance-substance-principles-intent (principles and intent being the means to attain substance of goodness) which four characteristics are present in different degrees in all the characters (just as an equilizer, you know), the balance being reached by Edmund and, principally, Fanny.
You would have Mary with appearance and intent, but lacking principles; Mrs. Norris, all principles and appearance but no intent, Sir Thomas, principles and intent but no appearance (which in this case would be also bad, because it caused his children to fear him); etc.
Any thoughts?
PD: this idea is yet in its developing stage. ;-)
- also enlightened...but taking you up on Sir T. Bonny 22:55:45 6/14/98
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- Sir Thomas Constanza 09:31:35 6/16/98
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- Lest we fall of the edge of the screen... gkb 18:41:18 6/16/98
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- Lest we fall of the edge of the screen... gkb 18:41:18 6/16/98
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- Sir Thomas Constanza 09:31:35 6/16/98
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- Wow! Dazzled! gkb 23:05:28 6/09/98
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- LOL Constanza 14:40:00 6/11/98
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- LOL Constanza 14:40:00 6/11/98
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