Lucy Analysis

To what extent does freedom and conformity have on people’s attitudes and behaviors?

From the onset of the novel, Lucy is portrayed as an innocent and naïve teenager. She can rarely think for herself and is always bossed around by older people, specifically Charlotte. As Lucy experiences Italy, she experiences joy and freedom, as well as the realities and the social norms she is confined to. Her inability to overcome social influence makes her unable to cope with her problems, thus alternating the behaviors and attitudes she truly wants to express.

In one instance, Lucy physically and literally crosses social class boundaries when she kisses George. Despite her feelings for him, she listens to Charlotte’s advice and suppresses them, swearing to secrecy. Now back in England, Lucy is again forced to act in lady-like, conventional ways. This time, however, Lucy has grown and matured from when she was previously in England.

Although she doesn’t want to comply with her old life style, she continues to conform to society by agreeing to marry Cecil. She shows no physical or emotional attachment towards Cecil, but agrees to marry him because is very genteel and conventional. Unable to resort back to confinement, Lucy expresses little forms of rebellion. In some instances, it’s by refusing to play Beethoven, talking back, and simply speaking her mind. Her obedience to society forces her to ignore her love for George, causing her to lie to those close to her, especially to herself.

Her ability to fully overcome social influence is apparent when she finally realizes that she truly loves George. She accepts George for who he is: an unconventional, loving, caring, and sensitive person. Although she always conforms to be accepted by society and her family, her love for George allows her to conquer her fears of rejection and criticism. Thus, love can prove to be a powerful tool, surpassing the social influence that others dominantly have on each other.