Even things which seem permanent pass away.

Since this story is a tragedy, it is fitting that it is filled with reminders that all will pass away, even that which seems totally permanent. The primary thing to whither and pass away, which is supposed to last until death, is Edward and Charlotte's marriage. Charlotte does all she can to save it, and she is not alone. The Captain, Herr Mittler, the Baroness, and even Ottilie herself try to get Edward to go back to his wife, but he is too smitten with Ottilie to even think about it. The marriage is utterly destroyed. While they are still together, the Count talks at length about how marriage ought to be temporary, and Charlotte worries that such inappropriate talk will have a negative influence on young Ottilie. In fact, Ottilie is torn in half by her conscience, as to whether or...