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Lady Audley’s Secret · Theme

Madness and Insanity

How Lady Audley’s Secret develops Madness and Insanity.

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.

Where it surfaces

  • 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.

  • Buried Alive

    Lady Audley's inherited madness is confirmed; she is confined to an asylum, and her emotional outbursts suggest mental instability.