Monday, March 26, 2007

On the Surface Part III: Caesar’s Column: A Story of the Twentieth Century

Donnelly extends his symbolic imagery within a romantic narrative. Beauty, virtue, benevolence, and, chastity are represented by the relationships between Gabriel and Estella; and Maximilian and Christina. Estella’s “fair complexion; long and flowing blond hair that enfolds her like a magnificent, shining garment; large blue eyes that are set far apart; a look of honesty and dignity (rarely witnessed in the countenance of a woman); and calm intelligence,” converges with Christina’s “youth, innocence, and a lyrical singing voice,” contained in a petite and diminutive frame, are symbolic images illustrating benevolence and honor of mankind (considering that Maximilian, is a member of the Brotherhood of Destruction), and reassuring Donnelly’s readers that man can live morally, ethically, and honorably.

Edith

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