Gender

The theme of Gender is dominant throughout the entire novel and is alluded to in nearly every chapter. There are also many ways that the author offers the concept of gender.

First, there is the concept of gender as a limiting factor. This is evidenced by Harry's treatment by the art world prior to her involvement with Felix, and then later after she marries Felix. Because she is female, her work is not credited with the same acclaim that would have been afforded a male artist presenting the same work. Secondly, she was relegated to a secondary citizen by Felix when they married. In order to present a good impression to the world, in which image is everything, she was expected to be the perfect hostess, mother, and wife. She did present this 'mask' to the world for decades but began to cast off this limited...