The Perfume of Eros · Question
How does The Perfume of Eros develop the theme of Wealth and Materialism?
Answer
The Perfume of Eros by Edgar Saltus develops Wealth and Materialism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The narrative emphasizes the importance of money, luxury, and possessions in defining identity and social worth, from Fanny's obsession with clothes to Loftus's lavish lifestyle and the stock market speculation that drives the characters.
Fanny's concerns about her bills and the setting at Sherry's highlight the importance of money and appearances.
Loftus's wealth is his primary tool. He sends flowers, uses a motor van, and offers a hundred dollars to buy an introduction, highlighting the power of money in social interactions.
Marie's new life is filled with luxurious clothes, flowers, and a victoria, illustrating the material comforts provided by Loftus.
Evidence in the book
- II: The Pocket Venus
Fanny's concerns about her bills and the setting at Sherry's highlight the importance of money and appearances.
- The Ex-First Lady
Loftus's wealth is his primary tool. He sends flowers, uses a motor van, and offers a hundred dollars to buy an introduction, highlighting the power of money in social interactions.
- V: Marie Changes Her Name
Marie's new life is filled with luxurious clothes, flowers, and a victoria, illustrating the material comforts provided by Loftus.
- II: The Mote in the Eye
Fanny's life as an 'objet de luxe' and Annandale's obsession with stock market gains highlight the materialistic values of the society.
- III: The Gates of Life
Loftus offers Marie money to leave, believing it can solve the situation. Marie's rejection of the money highlights the difference between his materialistic view and her desire for genuine love.
- The Return of the Yellow Fay
The dinner party conversation centers on the stock market crash, highlighting the characters' focus on financial loss and gain, and the 'vulgar' condition of money.
- VI: What the Papers Said
The Chronicle's reward of five thousand dollars and the focus on Loftus's lost millions highlight the era's materialism.
- X: The Verdict
The chapter opens with a description of the 'Gold Book' of New York's elite, emphasizing the power of money and social status.
