Daisy Miller
"Daisy Miller" by Henry James is a fascinating story of an unsuccessful love story. The reasons for this tragic conclusion reflect the story's central themes of cultural difference and the enduring conflict between the individual and society. The differing standards that regulate social conduct in America and Europe, especially as regards the proper comportment of women, are evident throughout the work. Are themes anyone, anywhere on this planet can relate too. For example, Daisy lacks the reserve of European women in her dealings with men. She is a deft flirt who sits in corners with mysterious men, dances all evening with the same partner, and receives visits at eleven o'clock at night. While these behaviors might not be condemned in America, they create a scandal among Daisy's European acquaintances. Raised in an America, which allowed women greater autonomy in dealing with the opposite sex, Daisy had no qualms about expressing her desire for male companionship.Additionally, Daisy transgressed European social norms by associating with people of lower classes, including chambermaids and couriers. Daisy treated her courier like he was part of the family,
Ultimately, Daisy's difficulties in Europe stem from her commitment to do as she pleases. She refuses to alter her behavior merely to satisfy the defenders of an exclusive culture to which she does not belong. This is especially clear in Daisy's response to Mrs. Walker's admonitions. Mrs. Walker tries to save Daisy. Daisy understands that being rude simply for the sake of social conformity would be inappropriate, and she accordingly responds to Mrs. Walker thusly: "If this is improper, than I am all improper, and you must give me up." Here comes Mrs. Walker expecting Daisy to leave her friend because she is old enough and people can and will talk her. Remind you that these people never exchanged a word with her, never gave her the respect she deserves. Once again, Daisy challenges society's rules. by allowing him to take part in making family decision and letting him eat on the same table as them. She is considered less than them. Because of her treating servants with the respect and courtesy to which their humanity entitles them, she became the object of mean-spirited gossip. Could it be that she treats all people with the same respect and courtesy, tha
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Approximate Word count = 789
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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