The Wings of the Dove · Chapter
Book VII explained
Milly Theale, now in Venice, is visited by Merton Densher, who has been sent by Kate Croy as part of their plan.
What happens
Milly Theale, now in Venice, is visited by Merton Densher, who has been sent by Kate Croy as part of their plan. Milly's health is declining, and she is surrounded by the attentive care of Susan Stringham and the great Eugenio. Densher's presence brings a mix of hope and tension, as Milly is unaware of the true nature of his mission. The chapter explores the deepening deception and the emotional toll on all involved.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Manipulation
Densher's visit to Milly is a calculated move in Kate's plan, highlighting the pervasive deception that defines their relationships.
Isolation and Connection
Milly's physical isolation in Venice contrasts with her desperate desire for genuine connection, especially with Densher.
Characters to notice
- Milly Theale
Milly is in Venice, her health failing, but she remains gracious and hopeful, unaware of the conspiracy around her.
- Merton Densher
Densher arrives in Venice at Kate's behest, struggling with his role in the deception and his growing feelings for Milly.
- Susan Stringham
Susan Stringham is devotedly attending to Milly, acting as her companion and protector in Venice.
- Eugenio
Eugenio, the great Italian servant, manages Milly's household in Venice with impeccable service and subtle influence.
- Kate Croy
Kate is not physically present in Venice but orchestrates Densher's visit, continuing to manipulate events from afar.
Key passages
“She had, in her way, a great capacity for being still; she could sit, like a statue, for hours, and the great Eugenio, who had known her now for some weeks, had learned to appreciate this.”
Milly had a remarkable ability to remain motionless, like a statue, for long periods, and Eugenio had come to admire this trait.
This illustrates Milly's passive endurance and the watchful presence of Eugenio.
“He had come, he had come, and she was not to be left alone; that was the great thing.”
Densher had arrived, and Milly felt relieved that she would not be left by herself.
Milly's relief at Densher's arrival underscores her loneliness and her hope for connection.