Ambiguity

Question 0

Framed Narrative. Prologue.

Answer 0

1. Anonymous narrator-may have his own grudges/motives, etc.
2. Douglas-showman: “He passed his hands over his eyes, made a little wincing grimace”.
3. Douglas-in love/admired Gov-bias story?

Question 1

Different perspectives…

Answer 1

1. Literal-take at face value the Gov’s narrative.
2. Freudian-take into account psychological state of mind. Her preoccupations/fantasies/anxieties may manifest themselves into real events-at least in her experience.

Question 2

Governess-Framed Narrative.

Answer 2

1. Frequent changes in behaviour towards children - unreliable narrator + source of info.

Question 3

Anti Definitive.

Answer 3

Doesn’t give any closure compared to other Victorian novels.

Question 4

Miles: “Peter Quint - you devil!”.

Answer 4

If Miles is referring to Quint, then Mile’s death-result of being dispossessed by the evil demon.

If Miles is referring to Gov-his death may be the result of her terrifying insanity.

Miles seems to be pointing to the true villain in the novel, however, exactly who he is pointing to is unclear.