Love and Romantic Illusion

Where it surfaces

• III

  Vincent's sudden infatuation with Lady Western at first sight introduces the theme of romantic illusion and idealization.

• V

  Vincent's immediate infatuation with Lady Western illustrates romantic idealization, and Mrs. Hilyard warns of the dangers of such illusions.

• VI

  Vincent's intense infatuation with Lady Western is portrayed as an intoxicating, almost delusional passion that blinds him to social realities.

• VII

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western is portrayed as a self-deceptive dream that leads to neglect of duty and bitter disappointment.

• VIII

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western is evident as her mere presence distracts him from his lecture, and her flirtation leaves him emotionally conflicted.

• XI

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western rekindles, despite his knowledge of darker realities.

• XIII

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western creates a 'capricious fairy' that distracts him from his sister's crisis, illustrating the theme of romantic illusion overriding duty.

• Chapter XIV

  The revelation of Fordham's past romance with Alice casts doubt on his current engagement to Susan, suggesting romantic illusions and hidden histories.

• The Midnight Train

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western distracts him even as he pursues his sister; his love is shown as a painful, impossible illusion.

• Chapter XXVI

  Vincent misinterprets Lady Western's pity as romantic love, creating a delusional refuge from his troubles.

• Chapter XXVIII

  Lady Western's naive interpretation of Mrs. Hilyard's agitation as love for Colonel Mildmay reflects the theme of romantic illusion.

• XXXI

  Vincent's infatuation with Lady Western is portrayed as a 'madness' and a 'sweet delirium,' highlighting the theme of romantic illusion and its conflict with duty.

• XXXII

  Vincent's hopeless infatuation with Lady Western and his jealousy upon seeing her with Mr. Fordham highlight the theme of romantic illusion and unattainable love.

• XL

  Vincent's unrequited love for Lady Western is laid bare as he realizes her kindness meant nothing romantic, shattering his illusions.

• XLI

  Adelaide's discussion of Lady Western's marriage to Fordham forces Vincent to confront his own romantic illusions and the reality of his feelings.

• XLIII

  Vincent's renewed hope and fascination upon seeing Alice and Susan, with the 'loves and the hopes' returning, suggests the reawakening of romantic and idealistic feelings.