The Sitting Room

Throughout The Davenports, the author utilizes the sitting room, that conjoins Olivia and Helen’s rooms as a symbol for their sisterhood. While Olivia’s room is tidy and organized, Helen’s chambers are scattered with paper and clothing. The sisters have different interests and ambitions but share and underlying bond forged in empathy. Like the sitting room that connects their disparate living spaces, love connects the sisters as they strive to forge their personal identities.

Ruby's Necklace

In The Davenports, Marquis utilizes Ruby’s necklace as a symbol for intimacy. After she tells Mr. Barton about her mother selling the necklace, Harrison buys the jewelry back for her as a gift. While Ruby is accustomed to receiving gift from suitors, when Harrison gives her the ruby necklace, he is demonstrating his understanding, empathy, and respect for her. The intimacy in their relationship allows...