The Individuality of Daisy in Henry James Daisy Miller Essay -- Henry

Why did pack create such a beguiling and bewildering character? Since the publication of Jamess novel in 1878, Daisy has worn some(prenominal) labels, among them flirt, innocent, and American Girl. Daisys representation of an American Girl of the late 19th atomic number 6 is evident. Her free-spiritedness and individuality reflect the social movement of the American middle-class. The depths of Daisy Miller that Kelley refers to could be read as unsounded, since the reader receives bantam insight to her feelings, and unappreciated, based on the perceptions of most characters. James likely viewed Daisy as admirable because of the individuality displayed in her actions, attitudes, and contrast to Winterbourne. When she enters the novella, Daisy quickly defies European conventions after speaking with Winterbourne as though they had been long acquainted, he notes, She had a spirit of her own (472). Though peradventure not surprising to modern audiences, Daisy shocks Winterbourne, her mother, and Eugenio when she asks Winterbourne to take her out in a boat at night, declaring, Thats all I want -- a little fuss (483). This assertive nature is later seen when Daisy invites Winterbourne to travel with the Millers and teach her pal Randolph, likely violating the etiquette with which Winterbourne is so familiar (471) ignoring the expectations for subtlety that Winterbourne complies with, Daisy tells him, I dont want you to uprise to Rome for your aunt, I want you to come for me (485). In Rome, Daisy continues conducting herself independent from the external influences of society. Mrs. Costello, who represents the geographically transcendent society, remarks that Daisy is a dreadful girl (477) she updates Winterbou... ...s too late she was carried away by Mr. Giovanelli (501), and similarly when he acknowledges to Mrs. Costello that he had mistakenly thought Daisy reciprocated his affection (506). so when Winterbourne reveals it was on his conscience that he h ad done Daisy injustice (506), he in all probability refers to his deciding that she was not respectable (503), in addition to his comment nearly whether she was engaged. Daisy Miller can be viewed as an endorsement for individuality James celebrates Daisys independence in the face of societys imposition while ruining Winterbournes prospects for happiness as a consequence for his passivity. Readers should pity Winterbourne, and thusly wonder and sympathize for Daisy regardless of her dying, Daisy did not live unhappily like Winterbourne does. whole kit CitedJames, Henry. Daisy Miller. New York Penguin Books, 1986.