Isabel Archers Downfall in Henry James The Portrait of a Lady

A detailed Summary of Isabel Archers Downfall in Henry James The Portrait of a Lady

It is an unquestionable fact of life that human nature is flawed. Human beings have a

variety of weaknesses that may differ from one person to the next. How one deals with this

ultimately determines whether it will or will not destroy the person. The faults that humans

possess stem from an open field of possibilities that they are able to choose from as they build

their own character. However, as much as individual free will is desirable, as all other parts of

the natural world, it can include negative aspects, as well. Probably, the most difficult element

is being able to make good choices, keeping in mind what Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Freedom

is not worth having if it does not connote freedom to err." Once a state of freedom is attained,

all of its sides are encompassed. This essential human cycle of freedom has progressed along

with the changing times, views, and values in society. It is depicted by many authors in

countless novels. Henry James' perception accurately describes the shifts that occurred in

society during the late nineteenth century. He uses colorful characters in his writings to express

his opinions on actual revolutionary outlooks of the time and to comment on human nature. The

beginning of the novel that Isabel Archer dreads the kind of definition implied in a commitment

in the events that surround her, or rather, how she will attain the important goal of the

aware of her error of judgment concerning Osmond's character- that though she had married in

143). Instead, she is so real and vivid that she becomes alive. Every person should think of their

spirit, yet she can no longer do nothing about it.

either way, Isabel is building up for a terrible loss. Yet, Isabel chooses to not engage herself in

spite of himself, has to offer only the system her instincts tells her to resist. Lord Warburton's

noble individuality and independence she bestows on him: "He knows everything, he

Approximate Word count = 3455
Approximate Pages = 14 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Novels

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