Which character do you think is most affected by the themes of envy, love and betrayal in the novel? Why?
My vote is Columbine. She was wrecked with envy due to the family history and ownership of the residence. She felt very betrayed, too, which might have led to her drinking. Not enough was shared about her personal love life so difficult to know what she felt and with whom. She never could be trusted. I highly suspect she knew about Billy and his American whereabouts long before his story was revealed to the others. I never felt sorry for her. (What a thing to admit!!!)
I agree Columbine had the most resentment.
I agree with NanK. That was also a point of contention I had with the story. I don’t feel it ever fully explained what her beef was with Dulcie (prior to Billy’s disappearance).
Nan hit the nail on the head! Totally agree!
I think the themes of envy, love and betrayal were the main focus of the book and all the main characters were suffering from these. Certainly, Thirza, Emilio, Dulcie, Ianthe, Columbine and Piers were all suffering with envy, love and betrayal. I will agree with the others that it appeared that Columbine had suffered the most and the longest.
I agree with Nan. Columbine was a tragic figure and forever scarred by envy, resentment and anger.
I agree with others that Columbine was a tragic figure; but while Piers was something of a minor character, he definitely suffered from betrayal and was crushed to learn that Billy was not his son.
I agree with Karen_B1. what was the major complaint Dulcie had with her cousin??? She wasn’t nice to her from the beginning of the story! Why?!?! And if Dulcie felt so strongly, why did she expect Columbine to watch her son? Makes no sense.
I think it is unanimous Columbine’s life was ruined because of her jealousy and guilt.
I agree that Columbine was most affected and harmed. Obviously Thirza was affected. Her father’s recovery was enormously helped by Penny.