The Perfume of Eros · Question
How does The Perfume of Eros develop the theme of Fate and Free Will?
Answer
The Perfume of Eros by Edgar Saltus develops Fate and Free Will across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Characters struggle between their choices and the forces of destiny, as seen in Sylvia's regret over dismissing Annandale, Fanny's acceptance of a flawed marriage, and the fortune-teller's predictions that hint at inevitable outcomes.
Annandale's belief that he can write 'Finis' on his past is challenged by the persistence of memory.
Sylvia contemplates whether the past can be undone, but fate intervenes with Fanny's announcement, sealing her loss.
Sylvia contemplates fate and her own responsibility, feeling that her pride and actions led to the tragic outcomes.
Evidence in the book
- Sweet-and-Twenty
Annandale's belief that he can write 'Finis' on his past is challenged by the persistence of memory.
- X: A Victim
Sylvia contemplates whether the past can be undone, but fate intervenes with Fanny's announcement, sealing her loss.
- Held Without Bail
Sylvia contemplates fate and her own responsibility, feeling that her pride and actions led to the tragic outcomes.
- IX: The Twelfth Juror
The unexpected confession of the juror, who dies in the jury box, seems like a twist of fate that clears Annandale. Orr remarks, 'Justice is rarely human, but sometimes it is divine,' suggesting a higher power at work.
