The Portrait of a Lady · Chapter
XVII explained
Isabel reflects on her relief after sending Caspar Goodwood away, feeling a sense of power and liberty.
What happens
Isabel reflects on her relief after sending Caspar Goodwood away, feeling a sense of power and liberty. Henrietta Stackpole confronts her about the encounter, and Isabel defends her independence. Ralph Touchett arrives with news of his father's illness, prompting a return to Gardencourt.
Themes in this chapter
Freedom and Independence
Isabel savors her liberty after rejecting Caspar Goodwood, viewing her refusal as an exercise of power and self-determination.
The Role of Women
Henrietta's assertive journalism and Isabel's defiance of suitors highlight contrasting models of female agency in the 19th century.
Deception and Manipulation
Henrietta's orchestration of Caspar's visit and Isabel's feeling of being trapped reveal undercurrents of manipulation in personal relationships.
Characters to notice
- Isabel Archer
Revels in her freedom after dismissing Caspar Goodwood, but feels a twinge of shame at her own sense of power.
- Henrietta Stackpole
Confronts Isabel about Caspar Goodwood's visit, expresses concern for Isabel's future, and plans to visit Lady Pensil.
- Caspar Goodwood
Visited Isabel and was sent back to America; his departure brings Isabel relief.
- Ralph Touchett
Learns from Henrietta about Caspar Goodwood's visit; later receives news of his father's illness and prepares to return to Gardencourt.
- Daniel Touchett
Reported to have had a sharp attack of his old malady, prompting Ralph's return.
- Mrs. Touchett
Sends a telegram to Ralph about his father's illness.
- Mr. Bantling
Promises Henrietta an invitation from his sister Lady Pensil.
- Annie Climber
Mentioned as a friend of Henrietta's who was asked three times in Italy.
Key passages
“A swift carriage, of a dark night, rattling with four horses over roads that one can't see—that's my idea of happiness.”
Isabel describes her ideal of happiness as a thrilling, blind journey into the unknown.
Reflects Isabel's romantic yearning for freedom and adventure, detached from practical concerns.
“I love you intensely, Isabel... Well, if you love me intensely let me as intensely alone.”
Henrietta professes deep affection, but Isabel retorts that true love should respect her autonomy.
Highlights the tension between caring interference and Isabel's fierce independence.
“She intensely rejoiced that Caspar Goodwood was gone; there was something in having thus got rid of him that was like the payment, for a stamped receipt, of some debt too long on her mind.”
Isabel feels immense relief at Caspar's departure, as if she has finally settled a burdensome obligation.
Illustrates Isabel's complex emotions—relief mixed with guilt over her own sense of power.