Lady Audley’s Secret · Question
How does Lady Audley’s Secret develop the theme of Madness and Insanity?
Answer
Lady Audley’s Secret by M. E. Braddon develops Madness and Insanity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Lady Audley's mental state is a central theme, with her actions attributed to hereditary insanity, and the novel explores the thin line between sanity and madness as a justification for her crimes.
George's dark presentiment of a 'black, pitiless tide' closing in on him hints at psychological distress bordering on obsession.
Robert's troubled dreams and his growing obsession with the mystery hint at the psychological strain and potential madness that pervades the narrative.
Robert fears Lady Audley's potential madness, and she accuses him of monomania, blurring the line between sanity and obsession.
Evidence in the book
- VIII: Before the Storm
George's dark presentiment of a 'black, pitiless tide' closing in on him hints at psychological distress bordering on obsession.
- Troubled Dreams
Robert's troubled dreams and his growing obsession with the mystery hint at the psychological strain and potential madness that pervades the narrative.
- XXIX: In the Lime-Walk
Robert fears Lady Audley's potential madness, and she accuses him of monomania, blurring the line between sanity and obsession.
- XXXI: Phoebe's Petition
Lady Audley questions her own sanity ('You are mad... I know what madness is') and contemplates murder, blurring the line between rational fear and insanity.
- XXXII: The Red Light in the Sky
Lady Audley's mental state deteriorates into near-madness as she contemplates murder and arson to protect her secret.
- The Bearer of the Tidings
Lady Audley insinuates Robert's insanity to Sir Michael, and Robert's own obsessive thoughts and mood changes are discussed as potential signs of madness.
- XXXIV: My Lady Tells the Truth
Lady Audley claims insanity as the cause of her murderous actions, blurring the line between sanity and madness.
- XXXVI: Dr. Mosgrave’s Advice
Dr. Mosgrave diagnoses latent hereditary insanity in Lady Audley, but distinguishes it from legal madness, emphasizing her cunning and danger.
