The Story of Ivy · Theme

Beauty and Manipulation

How The Story of Ivy develops Beauty and Manipulation.

Ivy's physical beauty is repeatedly described as a tool for social advancement and control over men, enabling her to extract money, favors, and devotion while masking her selfish and calculating nature.

Where it surfaces

II
Ivy uses her looks and charm to attract Rushworth and manage her husband, aware of her power over men.
III
Ivy uses her beauty and charm to manipulate Rushworth, feeling triumph as she senses his barrier weakening.
XII
Ivy uses her fragile loveliness to influence Orpington and has historically relied on her allure to secure men's support.
XV
Ivy's beauty and fragile demeanor are used to manipulate the court's sympathy, influencing both the jury and the public.