Student Question
What associations does Diana's name evoke in the jeweller and why does this create conflict?
Quick answer:
The jeweller associates Diana's name with love and aspiration, evoking a desire to be part of her world. This creates conflict as he is reminded of his compromised integrity; he is buying fake jewels from the duchess to be near Diana, thus sacrificing his values for personal gain. Her name stirs emotions and fantasies of a better life, conflicting with his professional ethics and highlighting his internal struggle.
When Oliver hears Diana's name, he feels and thinks several things. First and most immediately, he loves her, so any mention of her name brings forth a surge of fond emotion and fantasy. He wants her, and, almost as badly, he wants to be part of the world she lives in and represents. On the other hand, mentioning her reminds him of the difficult position he's going to be put in. The duchess is selling him fakes, and he's paying her for them, for the chance to be near Diana. As a result, he is giving up who he is to get what he wants.
What associations does mentioning Diana's name arouse in the jeweler?
Ah, a subtle question. First and most simply, we're told that the jeweler loves Diana. Therefore, the first association is that of love. After that, though, hearing her name reminds him that there are other things in play besides the wealth he would make from the Duchess. There are higher standards, and appearances of honor. He just can't test the pearl while thinking of her. Hearing her name makes him imagine the perfect life he might have, and imagine just how far he might rise from his humble beginnings.
Greg
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