The Sword of Damocles · Chapter
XIII: The End of My Lady's Picture explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Sylvester spends an evening at home, awaiting the arrival of Mr. Sylvester and a young cousin from Grotewell. Bertram Mandeville, now calling himself Sylvester, visits and converses with her. When Mr. Sylvester arrives with Paula, she is introduced to the family, and her beauty and naive charm make a strong impression. Later, Mr. Sylvester reveals to Bertram that he has been elected president of the Madison Bank and expresses a more favorable view of women, influenced by Paula. Bertram plays Mendelssohn on the piano, and Paula's profound emotional response reveals her deep appreciation for music.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
Paula's simple country appearance contrasts with her inner beauty and depth, while Mrs. Sylvester's elegant home conceals her own vanity and superficiality.
Social Class and Ambition
Paula's arrival from a cottage to a luxurious home highlights class differences; Mr. Sylvester's election as bank president and Bertram's ambition reflect social climbing.
Love and Sacrifice
Bertram's willingness to change his name and pursue a business career for the sake of love is hinted at, and Mr. Sylvester's admiration for Paula suggests a protective affection.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Sylvester
Proudly introduces Paula to his wife and nephew; reveals his election as bank president and a changed opinion of women.
- Paula
Arrives from Grotewell, dazzled by the luxurious surroundings; shows a natural grace and deep emotional response to music.
- Mr. Mandeville
Now calling himself Bertram Sylvester; visits his uncle's home, plays piano, and is struck by Paula's appreciation of music.
- Mrs. Sylvester
Spends an evening at home, eagerly awaiting the arrival of her cousin Paula; engages in light conversation with Bertram.
- Ona Delafield
Cousin of Paula, present at the introduction; shows a rare moment of warmth by kissing Paula.
Key passages
“I do not think it is that... Sudden lights I can bear, but I have come from a little cottage on the hillside and the magnificence of nature does not prepare you for the first sudden view of the splendors of art.”
Paula explains that the bright lights aren't overwhelming; rather, she is struck by the contrast between her simple rural home and the luxurious art-filled room.
Highlights Paula's sensitivity and the theme of appearance vs. reality.
“Women are not all frivolous and foolish-minded; there are some jewels of simple goodness and faith yet left in the world.”
Mr. Sylvester tells Bertram that not all women are shallow; some possess genuine goodness and faithfulness, likely referring to Paula.
Shows Mr. Sylvester's changed view of women, influenced by Paula.
“O what a world lies in those simple bits of ivory!”
Paula marvels at the piano keys, suggesting that they contain a vast universe of expression and emotion.
Reflects Paula's deep emotional connection to music.