According
to Judith Fryer, whether the ghosts are real or not is not something relevant. She
believes that the governess sees her own psychic projections, not real people.
Moreover, she focuses her attention mainly on the governess’ personality. She
describes her as a possessive character who leads the children to destruction. According
to this author, everything is black and white for the protagonist, which is
clearly portrayed in the governess’ conception of the children as beautiful and
innocent at first, and ugly and evil in the end. Fryer states that the
governess sees herself as the one who will provide direction for the lost children
and thus earning for herself the admiration of the master. Mrs. Grose, for her
part, seems to be jealous of the governess’ authority and encourages her
fantasies so as to drive her mad. Fryer believes that Mrs. Grose opts not to
tell her master about Quint and Miss. Jessel’s affair in order to have complete
control of the children.
I
completely agree with Fryer’s point of view. In my opinion, the governess’
arrival is a stumbling block for Mrs. Grose in her ambition to be the master’s
eyes at Byrd. For this reason, and considering the governess’ innocence and inexperience,
Mr. Grose decides to embark the young lady on a quest that leads her into
madness. I also believe that the master’s flirtatious attitude exacerbates the
governess’ innate possessive behaviour, especially towards Flora and Miles.
Thorough account, including personal interpretation.
ReplyDeleteAttractive layout , too.
NB: Byrd??
I also agree with this interpretation since Mrs Grose rejects the governess because she will be superior to her and also because she will have the children's attention.
ReplyDeleteAs different interpretations are allowed, it may be possible that Mrs Grose wants to drive the governess mad. But I think this idea is not sustained in the story. It is the governess who speaks about the ghosts and when talking to Mrs Grose she does not even let the woman finish her ideas. I personally like Mrs Grose, because she seems to be quite sincere with the children, and deeply cares about them. Besides, I don't think that Mrs Grose has any ambition at all, she is illiterate and well aware of her position in the house.
ReplyDeleteI strongly agree with M. Eugenia. I don’t believe Mrs Grose’s intention is to drive the governess mad. Throughout the story there is no evidence that validates this interpretation. It is, in fact, the governess who claims to have seen the ghosts and asks Mrs Grose questions about them. I’m more inclined to believe that the governess is mentally ill.
ReplyDelete