Entwined Lives: Love, Marriage, And Autonomy In Anthony Trollope's Can You Forgive Her?
Abstract
Love is portrayed as a profound connection of souls, while marriage represents both a romantic ideal and a societal institution shaped by rigid expectations. Autonomy, particularly for women, challenges these norms, highlighting the struggle for self-determination within the confines of duty, gender roles, and economic dependence. These intertwined themes expose the tension between individual agency and societal constraints, providing a complex perspective on personal and relational dynamics within a structured social framework. This study explores the intricate depiction of love, marriage and autonomy through the female characters in Anthony Trollope's Can You Forgive Her? The novel provides a varied composition of social and political interactions that reflect the societal expectations and limitations placed upon women during the Victorian era. The article focuses on key characters such as Alice Vavasor, Lady Glencora Palliser, and Mrs. Greenow, the analysis examines how Trollope portrays their struggles for autonomy, their roles within the confines of marriage, and their indirect engagement with political power. Alice Vavasor's vacillation between personal freedom and societal conformity highlights the internal conflicts faced by women who sought independence in a patriarchal society. Lady Glencora Palliser’s story, set against the backdrop of her husband’s political career, illustrates the intersection of marriage and politics, revealing the subtle yet significant influence women could wield in the political sphere, despite their exclusion from formal participation. Meanwhile, Mrs. Greenow’s financial independence as a widow offers a contrasting narrative of female autonomy, challenging traditional gender roles through economic empowerment. This study argues that Trollope’s portrayal of these female characters not only critiques the restrictive gender norms of his time but also recognizes the complexities of women’s roles in Victorian society. Through these narratives, Trollope provides insight into how women navigated the constraints of their era, subtly influencing the political and social spheres from within the confines of their prescribed roles. The novel serves as a valuable literary lens for understanding the interplay between gender and politics in Victorian England, offering a multifaceted exploration of the female experience in the society.
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