Scandal and Reputation

The fear of social disgrace drives characters' actions, from Marie's shame at being a kept woman to Fanny's mother's obsession with appearances, and the public's fascination with Loftus's murder reveals how reputation can be destroyed overnight.

The murder and trial become a public scandal, affecting reputations.

Annandale's drunken behavior and subsequent memory loss threaten his reputation and lead to the end of his engagement.

The trial is a public spectacle that threatens to ruin Annandale's reputation and expose the private scandals of the upper class.

The murder of Loftus and the potential involvement of Annandale threaten to create a public scandal.