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Chapter 5 Summary - The Portrait of a Lady | The Portrait of a Lady -Summary, Themes & Characters - Novels PDF Download

  • Ralph and his mother exchange pleasantries. While they chat, we find out some details on Ralph’s past.
  • After attending both Harvard and Oxford (his father wanted him to be both British and American), Ralph took a position at his father’s bank. At university, he was considered a very promising young man. Growing up, he admired his father more than anyone else.
  • Sadly, Ralph fell ill while working at the bank, and never quite recovered. As a result, he stopped working to take care of his health. We don’t know exactly what’s wrong with him, but he has weak lungs.
  • Ralph resigns himself to indifference in order to make his life seem less of a disappointment.
  • Isabel’s arrival, however, has gotten his blood flowing in a new way. He asks his mother what she means to do with Isabel.
  • Mrs. Touchett plans to invite her to stay at Gardencourt for some weeks, then plans to take Isabel to France to buy clothes, and then to Florence in the autumn.
  • Mrs. Touchett sees something special in Isabel, perhaps something that reminds her of herself. She thinks that Isabel might be a genius in some way.
  • When Ralph asks too many questions about Isabel, Mrs. Touchett insists that he find out himself.
  • Ralph finally straight-out asks Mrs. Touchett the question he’s been wondering the whole time: does she plan to marry Isabel off? Mrs. Touchett replies that Isabel can do whatever she’d like.
  • Ralph escorts his mother down to meet with his father.
  • Ralph sits and talks with Isabel for an hour, while his parents chat, and Lord Warburton leaves to go home for dinner.
  • Ralph and Isabel look at the paintings in the house. Ralph is impressed with Isabel’s natural taste for art.
  • Gardencourt being a large, old, very historic house, Isabel assumes that there’s a family ghost. Ralph confesses that there is one and that he has seen it, but Isabel can’t, because she hasn’t suffered enough yet. This conversation is half-joking, half-serious.
  • Isabel insists that she is not afraid of ghosts.
  • Ralph hands her a candle to light the path to her room.
  • Ralph returns to the drawing-room alone.
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FAQs on Chapter 5 Summary - The Portrait of a Lady - The Portrait of a Lady -Summary, Themes & Characters - Novels

1. What is the significance of the portrait in "The Portrait of a Lady"?
The portrait in "The Portrait of a Lady" serves as a symbol of the protagonist's inner self. It reflects her desires, dreams, and aspirations. It also represents her journey of self-discovery and the choices she makes throughout the novel.
2. Who is the author of "The Portrait of a Lady"?
"The Portrait of a Lady" is written by Henry James, an American writer known for his psychological and complex novels. He is considered one of the greatest novelists in the English language.
3. What is the main theme of "The Portrait of a Lady"?
The main theme of "The Portrait of a Lady" revolves around the idea of freedom and self-determination. It explores the limitations imposed by society, gender roles, and personal expectations. The novel emphasizes the importance of making choices that align with one's own desires and values.
4. How does the protagonist's journey of self-discovery unfold in the novel?
The protagonist's journey of self-discovery in "The Portrait of a Lady" unfolds through her interactions with various characters and her experiences in different social settings. She navigates through relationships, confronts societal expectations, and ultimately learns to assert her individuality and make choices that shape her own destiny.
5. What is the significance of the title "The Portrait of a Lady"?
The title "The Portrait of a Lady" suggests that the novel focuses on a particular female character and her personal development. It implies that the story explores the complexities and nuances of this lady's life and the portrait serves as a metaphorical representation of her identity and experiences.
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