The Real Thing

A detailed Summary of The Real Thing

In Henry James' "The Real Thing," he explores the idea of one's responsibility to others.

The story begins when a couple, genteel in appearance, walk into an artist's studio. The artist, taking them at face value, assumes they are there to have their portraits done and imagines the wealth and reputation that could come to him.

Through an awkward conversation, the artist realizes the couple is actually seeking employment. Neither has any experience, but attempt to convince him that they could be useful as "the real thing" in illustrations of their kind of people.

The artist reflects on his dislike of amateurs and his preference of the representation over the genuine article. He also admits to himself that he has all the models he needs. His admiration of the couple, however, blinds him to his logic and he agrees to let them sit for him, but promises nothing.

The artist soon comes to the realization that they are "the real thing , but always the

His friend, Jack claims the artist was done harm by the couple, by causing him to feel responsible for others. The artist however feels content and cherishes the memory of his friends.

Once the Monarchs had "reduced" " themselves to the status of servitude, preferring employment to starvation, they were able to help themselves.

The artist was content with his choice. He was able to help the couple along without destroying himself in the process.

The artist is commissioned for the series and life goes on.

same thing" and, as such, are unsuitable to the work. The artist is still determined, however, to do something with them.

The destitute couple in this story, ironically named The Monarchs, call upon the artist for work. The artist, feeling responsible in some way, tries to help them. And he does, at the expense of his work. The artist compromises, saving his job and helping the couple at the same time.

Eventually, the artist has to tell t

Some common words found in the essay are:
Jack Hawley, James' Real, friend jack, able help, artist feels,

Approximate Word count = 645
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

join now Save Paper

Saved Paper

Save your papers so you can locate them quickly!

Newest Essays

Testimonials

"Thank You So Much!!! You have saved me once again!!!"
Jack M.
"With so many papers to chose from, I was able to get ideas to help me with all of my classes. Thank You!"
Brian P.
"I've used this site for the last 3 years to help me come up with ideas for my papers."
Sara J.
"I use this site every week to help me write my own papers!"
Rachel W.
"I love this site!!!"
Marie N.

The Real Thing

Related Essays

Professional Essays

Saved Paper

Newest Essays

Testimonials