Indian Summer · Question
How does Indian Summer develop the theme of Social Convention and Propriety?
Answer
Indian Summer by William Dean Howells develops Social Convention and Propriety across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Characters navigate the rules of society, especially in the context of Carnival and the veglione, where Mrs. Bowen's cautiousness clashes with Colville's more relaxed attitudes, revealing tensions between personal desire and social expectations.
Mrs. Bowen's ladylike demeanor and Effie's careful deference to her mother illustrate the social conventions governing behavior and propriety in their circle.
Colville's careful attention to his evening dress and the formalities of Mrs. Bowen's reception highlight the social codes of expatriate life in Florence.
The chapter depicts the formalities of a Florentine reception, including the roles of hosts and guests, and the expectations of conversation among expatriates.
Evidence in the book
- II
Mrs. Bowen's ladylike demeanor and Effie's careful deference to her mother illustrate the social conventions governing behavior and propriety in their circle.
- III
Colville's careful attention to his evening dress and the formalities of Mrs. Bowen's reception highlight the social codes of expatriate life in Florence.
- IV
The chapter depicts the formalities of a Florentine reception, including the roles of hosts and guests, and the expectations of conversation among expatriates.
- Chapter VIII
Mrs. Bowen's concern for Effie's upbringing contrasts with Colville's relaxed influence; Imogene's judgment of the songs reflects shifting social norms.
- IX
Mrs. Bowen's disapproval of dancing at the Veglione and her concern for propriety contrast with the carnival's liberating atmosphere.
- Chapter XI
Mrs. Bowen's concern about the veglione and her warning to Imogene highlight the importance of propriety.
- Chapter XII
Colville's concern about propriety and his need to leave Florence to avoid further embarrassment highlight social constraints.
- Chapter XIII
Mrs. Bowen insists on propriety in Imogene's dealings with Colville, and the letter-writing scene highlights the social constraints governing their interactions.
