The Perfume of Eros · Chapter
Enchantment explained
Loftus visits Mme.
What happens
Loftus visits Mme. Machin's den, where he pays her and waits for Marie. When Marie arrives, he professes his love and asks her to be his wife. Marie, though hesitant and fearful of the social and moral implications, is overwhelmed by his declarations and promises. Loftus persuades her to trust him, swearing before God and man that she shall be his wife. Marie, enchanted by the dream he presents, surrenders to his embrace, choosing faith over her fears.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Deception
Loftus's declarations of love are intertwined with manipulation, as he uses romantic language and promises to persuade Marie, while his true intentions remain ambiguous.
Social Class and Marriage
Marie's concern about being 'nobody' and the secretive nature of the proposed union highlight the class barriers and social conventions surrounding marriage.
Appearance vs. Reality
The chapter contrasts the enchanting dream Loftus presents with the underlying fear and abyss Marie senses, illustrating the disparity between romantic illusion and harsh reality.
Characters to notice
- Royal Loftus
Arrives at Mme. Machin's den, pays her, and plays the piano while waiting for Marie. He professes his love and asks Marie to be his wife, using persuasive and manipulative language to overcome her objections.
- Marie Durand
Enters the den and is immediately overcome by Loftus's presence. She confesses her love but is torn by fear and a sense of wrongdoing. She is ultimately swayed by Loftus's promises and swears her faith to him.
- Mme. Machin
The ex-first lady who facilitates the meeting. She is paid by Loftus and leaves the den, advising him to let her know in advance to avoid a scandal.
Key passages
“Love, love alone, is marriage.”
Loftus argues that the emotional bond between them is what truly constitutes a marriage, not a legal ceremony.
This line encapsulates Loftus's persuasive and manipulative rhetoric, downplaying the importance of social and legal formalities.
“Before God and man I swear you shall be my wife.”
Loftus makes a solemn oath to Marie, promising that she will become his wife, which ultimately convinces her to trust him.
This dramatic vow is the turning point for Marie, as it transforms her fear into faith and leads her to surrender to him.