The Past and Memory

The narrative is steeped in history—both personal and architectural—with characters haunted by past events, such as Sophia's abandonment of her family and the abbey's dissolution, which shape present conflicts.

Janaway's detailed recollection of the Joliffe family history and the lingering impact of past events on the present.

Miss Joliffe's attachment to the painting is rooted in family memory—her father's pride, her mother's talent, and the link to a more comfortable past. Sharnall critiques how family loyalty distorts memory and judgment.

Anastasia's memories of her father Martin Joliffe and his obsession with the nebuly coat connect the present events to the family's past.

The bells evoke memories of historical events, and the 'nebuly coat' legend continues to haunt the present.