The Cloven Foot · Question
How does The Cloven Foot develop the theme of Secrets and Deception?
Answer
The Cloven Foot by M. E. Braddon develops Secrets and Deception across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The plot hinges on hidden identities and fraudulent marriages, including John's secret first marriage to a French dancer and the false claim of Laura's paternity, leading to legal and moral crises.
John Treverton initially suspects Laura of being a 'deep and designing creature,' and the chapter hints at hidden motives and unspoken truths about the past.
Laura Malcolm's secret meeting with a mysterious man in the garden introduces an element of deception and hidden motives, troubling John Treverton.
Jack Chicot hides his true feelings and plans from his wife, and the anonymous gift of the bracelet introduces deception and hidden motives.
Evidence in the book
- I: The Heir Presumptive
John Treverton initially suspects Laura of being a 'deep and designing creature,' and the chapter hints at hidden motives and unspoken truths about the past.
- III: A Mysterious Visitor
Laura Malcolm's secret meeting with a mysterious man in the garden introduces an element of deception and hidden motives, troubling John Treverton.
- La Chicot Has Her Own Way
Jack Chicot hides his true feelings and plans from his wife, and the anonymous gift of the bracelet introduces deception and hidden motives.
- VII: "A Little While Such Lips as Thine to Kiss"
Treverton's lingering suspicion about the mysterious door in the orchard hints at hidden aspects of Laura's life, though he rationalizes it away.
- Days That Are Over, Dreams That Are Done
Jack Chicot conceals his true feelings about his wife's condition, but Gerard sees through his facade.
- IX: “And Art Thou Come! and Art Thou True!”
John hints at unexplained reasons for his long absence, suggesting hidden circumstances, while Laura suspects he may be insincere about his love.
- X: Engaged
John hints at a dark page in his past, creating dramatic irony as Laura remains unaware.
- No Trousseau
John's mysterious conduct and his growing melancholy, along with Edward's doubts about his motives, hint at hidden truths beneath the surface of the impending marriage.
