The Marriage Portrait

The author utilizes the marriage portrait as a symbol for the patriarchy. When the painting is complete, Lucrezia realizes that her corporeal presence is no longer necessary to Alfonso. The portrait serves as a trophy and evidence of their union, he does not need Lucrezia to continue his control of the duchy. The author utilizes this moment to signify that women are seen as disposable pawns for men in patriarchal political and cultural systems.

The Tigress

Throughout The Marriage Portrait, O’Farrell utilizes the tigress as a symbol for Lucrezia. Toward the outset of the novel, the protagonist watches guards bring the caged animal into the castle’s dungeons. In the same manner that the tiger is a wild animal that was torn away from its natural habitat and isolated in a cage, Lucrezia is not allowed to act on her interest and freewill...