East vs. West

The novel contrasts Western materialism and social conventions with Eastern spirituality and simplicity, as seen in Kitty's encounters with the nuns, the Manchu woman, and the Taoist philosophy discussed by Waddington.

Kitty's Western perspective struggles to interpret the Eastern landscape, which feels alien and menacing.

The contrast between the Western missionaries' dining room and the nearby Chinese city in terror from cholera highlights the cultural and physical divide.

The mystical, alien beauty of the Eastern landscape stands in stark contrast to Kitty's Western sensibilities, prompting a spiritual reaction.

Waddington's adoption of Chinese perspectives and his critique of European life introduce Kitty to a different worldview.