Blog #2 Behind a Mask

The "it" of Chapter 5 may represent Jean's manipulative mastery over ALL the men of the novella. The cunning artifice of her strategies varies with the person she is trying to allure. She entices young Ned by emphasizing her worldly sensibilities, such as her interest in horses and the sweetness of her music. With Sir John, she exudes an air of quintessential femininity, as evidenced by her modesty, bashfulness, and (feigned) acknowledgment of his superiority. With ease, she is able to enchant Ned and Sir John Coventry, but conquering Gerald requires more time and effort. In this chapter, we see Gerald's lethargic wall start to crumble under the force of Jean's Siren-like power. She finally appeals to Gerald by bringing out his inner passions through the tableaux, and he begins to feel a genuine interest in her because she is so "different." Also, being the daughter of a Lady Howard makes her an acceptable match. Being a poor governess dependent on the good will of her superior employers, she hopes to break through the socially confined system and live a life she is entitled to. Instead of letting life's circumstances rule her, she is trying to control her own destiny by choosing her husband rather than being chosen by him.