Ambition and Vanity

Neville's confession of her 'damnable ambition' and vanity about her mind and looks drives much of her anxiety, contrasting with Pamela's quieter acceptance and highlighting the pain of unfulfilled potential.

Neville envies Rodney's achievements yet recognizes his own burning ambitions; she reflects on the vanity of wanting more than one can have.

Neville's vanity about her past cleverness and her struggle with indolence reflect the tension between ambition and self-indulgence.

Neville's internal conflict between her desire to succeed in medicine and her indolent, flirtatious past reflects themes of ambition and self-perceived vanity.

Gerda's determination to match Nan's feats, driven by a desire for Barry's admiration and a point of honor between the women.