The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James
- 1. The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James is a rich and intricate novel that delves into the complexities of personal freedom, identity, and the conflicts between American and European values in the late 19th century. At the center of the narrative is Isabel Archer, an intelligent and independent young American woman who travels to Europe with the hope of exploring her own desires and ambitions. As she navigates her way through a world of refined society, filled with cunning personalities and hidden intentions, Isabel's journey becomes a poignant examination of the choices she must make about love, marriage, and self-fulfillment. Instantly drawn to her charm and potential, several characters, including the charming but manipulative Gilbert Osmond, seek to influence her fate. Through Isabel’s struggles, James masterfully explores themes of autonomy and entrapment, culminating in a profound commentary on the nature of personal sacrifice and the societal pressures faced by women of her time. The novel's rich prose and psychological depth invite the reader to reflect on the nature of freedom and the often invisible constraints that shape our lives, making it one of James's most celebrated works and a lasting classic in American literature.
Who is the main protagonist of 'The Portrait of a Lady'?
A) Gilbert Osmond
B) Mrs. Touchett
C) Isabel Archer
D) Henrietta Stackpole
- 2. What is Isabel Archer's primary desire at the beginning of the novel?
A) To seek freedom and independence
B) To marry for wealth
C) To travel Europe with a companion
D) To stay in America
- 3. Where does Isabel go to live after her marriage?
A) France
B) America
C) England
D) Italy
- 4. What does Isabel inherit from her uncle?
A) A house
B) A large fortune
C) A collection of art
D) A title
- 5. Who is Isabel's husband?
A) Daniel Touchett
B) Ralph Touchett
C) Caspar Goodwood
D) Gilbert Osmond
- 6. What societal norms does Isabel challenge?
A) Class distinctions
B) Gender roles and marriage expectations
C) Religious beliefs
D) Wealth accumulation
- 7. What is the name of Gilbert Osmond's daughter?
A) Maud
B) Isabel
C) Henrietta
D) Pansy
- 8. Who represents the idea of American ambition and idealism?
A) Lord Warburton
B) Caspar Goodwood
C) Ralph Touchett
D) Gilbert Osmond
- 9. What is the literary style of 'The Portrait of a Lady'?
A) Romanticism
B) Psychological realism
C) Gothic fiction
D) Stream of consciousness
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