Marianne

As a static figure in the novel, Marianne symbolizes archetypal feminine devotion to a man. Marianne’s character does not develop; the sole change is the man who receives her devotion. Erica witnesses her love two men, Axel and Leonard, who are opposites in terms of character. Axel is abusive and neglectful. Leonard is kind but preoccupied with his own artistic pursuits. What is common between the two is that Marianne dotes on them while they do little in return for her. That is how she is a symbol. The type of man is irrelevant; her behavior is static. Consequently, she appears to be merely a caretaker in Erica’s perspective. In Marianne’s own words, “It should be simple. A man lives with his wife and together they make a good life for their baby” (136). Charmian tells Erica, “You should be very cautious of pinning...