The Cloven Foot · Question
How does The Cloven Foot develop the theme of Bohemianism vs. Respectability?
Answer
The Cloven Foot by M. E. Braddon develops Bohemianism vs. Respectability across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
John Treverton's past life as a Parisian artist and 'Jack Chicot' contrasts sharply with his later role as a country squire, highlighting the conflict between artistic freedom and the demands of respectable society.
The Chicots' extravagant, pleasure-seeking life contrasts sharply with the respectable, orderly habits of Mrs. Rawber, highlighting the tension between bohemian and conventional values.
Jack's life as a draughtsman and his wife's career as a ballet dancer contrast with his longing for respectability and a life free from scandal.
La Chicot's life as a dancer and the bohemian world of the theatre are contrasted with the domestic ideal.
Evidence in the book
- La Chicot
The Chicots' extravagant, pleasure-seeking life contrasts sharply with the respectable, orderly habits of Mrs. Rawber, highlighting the tension between bohemian and conventional values.
- La Chicot Has Her Own Way
Jack's life as a draughtsman and his wife's career as a ballet dancer contrast with his longing for respectability and a life free from scandal.
- Days That Are Over, Dreams That Are Done
La Chicot's life as a dancer and the bohemian world of the theatre are contrasted with the domestic ideal.
- XIV: “You Have but to Say the Word”
La Chicot's reckless, bohemian lifestyle contrasts with the offers of a respectable house in Mayfair from Lemuel.
- Edward Clare Discovers a Likeness
The contrast between Laura's secluded, respectable life at Hazlehurst and Chicot's Bohemian existence in London is emphasized.
- XVII: Murder
The lodging house inhabitants include a tragic actress and a woman of questionable habits, contrasting with the respectable horror of murder.
- The Children's Party
Edward describes the suspicious man as a 'London Bohemian' and a swindler, contrasting the respectable setting of the children's party with the disreputable underworld of London.
- XXVII: Desrolles Is Not Communicative
Desrolles is transformed by money from a shabby pauper into a confident Bohemian, contrasting with Edward Clare's settled, respectable life. The tension between artistic freedom and social propriety is evident.
