Student Question
How did a misunderstanding between Aziz and Fielding regarding Adela develop in A Passage to India?
Quick answer:
A misunderstanding between Aziz and Fielding regarding Adela in A Passage to India develops because Fielding shows compassion for Adela, recognizing her confusion and bravery in admitting her mistake during the trial. Aziz, on the other hand, cannot forgive her false accusation and refuses to sympathize with her, leading to a rift between him and Fielding.
Do you mean during and after the trial?
Adela had good intentions when she came to India, but she is a confused and unstable woman. She is interested in Indian culture, like Mrs. Moore, but she doesn't devote herself to really getting to the know Indians like Mrs. Moore does - it is intellectual curiosity more than a heartfelt desire. Because of this, she does not react well to things she does not understand, such as Aziz's actions in the Marabar caves. Plus, she asks insulting questions (like asking Aziz if he has more than one wife) and does not even realize that they are insulting. The heat, the sound in the caves, her confusion over her engagement to Ronny, all overwhelm her and she makes the false accusation against Aziz. Fielding seems to have compassion for Adela and realizes she is confused, so he does not hate her like Aziz does over the accusation of rape. Plus, Adela redeems herself somewhat at Aziz's trial when she realizes the damge she has caused and indicates that she may have imagined the entire thing. This is very hard for her to admit, and Fielding admires her for her bravery. Aziz does not however, and he refuses to entertain any ideas that might be sympathetic towards Adela, in spite of Fieldings attempts to convince him. Aziz is as guilty of cultural ethnocentrism as the British that he condemns.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.