Anthony Trollope's incisive critique of Victorian society, particularly the nuanced interplay between virtue and hypocrisy, is vividly explored in The Eustace Diamonds. At the heart of the novel are themes of marriage and money, revealing the tensions between love and financial ambition. Two contrasting female protagonists, Lizzie Eustace and Lucy Morris, are emblematic of the era's conflicting values and societal expectations.

Characters and Contrasts

Lizzie Eustace, a captivatingly clever and attractive woman, is motivated by material gain, drawing suitors due to the fortune she inherits from her late husband. Her character starkly contrasts with Lucy Morris, who, despite being virtuous and principled, lacks financial means. Both women are orphans thrust into adulthood without the cushion of wealth. However, Lizzie's pursuit of financial security through seduction places her in direct opposition to Lucy’s unwavering fidelity and moral integrity. For instance, Lucy remains devoted to Frank Greystock even when society casts doubt on his intentions, while Lizzie retaliates with thoughts of vengeance when Lord Fawn hesitates in his commitment.

The Complexity of Lizzie Eustace

In creating Lizzie Eustace, Trollope crafts a character as intriguing as Milton’s Satan in Paradise Lost. Despite Lucy embodying the ideal Victorian woman, her predictability renders her less dynamic. Lizzie, conversely, is a complex figure, often compared to Thackeray’s Becky Sharp from Vanity Fair. For modern readers, Lizzie's pragmatic approach and defiance in a patriarchal society can appear almost admirable. Her refusal to surrender the Eustace family diamonds despite immense pressure showcases her audacity and, paradoxically, a form of integrity.

The Symbolism of the Diamonds

The diamond necklace in the novel acts as a powerful symbol of discord and the corrosive influence of wealth. Rather than bringing pleasure, the necklace breeds anxiety and distrust. Lizzie’s relentless guardianship over it, despite her desire to rid herself of it, highlights the contradictory nature of wealth's allure and the burdens it entails.

Marriage and Social Ambitions

Lizzie’s solitary existence, apart from her gullible cousin Frank, contrasts with her parasitic associations with the likes of Mrs. Carbuncle and Lucinda Roanoke. Her wealth makes her an attractive prospect for suitors keen on financial gain, yet it is also an obstacle. Both Frank and Lord Fawn see marriage to Lizzie as a path to financial stability, yet the looming scandal surrounding the diamonds threatens their careers. Lord George de Bruce Carruthers, a cynical fortune hunter, and Mr. Emilius, a shrewd preacher, further complicate Lizzie's romantic prospects, each weighing the risks of involvement with her against potential rewards.

A Society Governed by Wealth

Trollope concludes the relationship between Lucy and Frank with a traditional happy ending, yet The Eustace Diamonds lays bare a society intricately tied to the "cash nexus," as described by Thomas Carlyle. This portrayal underscores a world where the revered values of society are often overshadowed by the power of wealth and the social status it affords. Through his vivid characters and incisive narrative, Trollope captures the essence of a society where financial imperatives frequently eclipse moral considerations.