A Review of "Washington Square"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the economic plight of Catherine who represents the women of nineteenth century America. It shows how Catherine, a young woman lives with her father, a doctor, and is dependent on him for her livelihood. The writer discusses how Catherine's choices are limited first by social standing and economic realities, and second by decisions made by the paternal figure watching over her before she is betrothed.

From the Paper:

"More than this, though, Townsend sees women as no more than objects to be used for his own needs, both sexual and financial. He seeks out women who can provide him with the funds he needs to live in the manner he prefers. Marriage for him is a means to acquire a dowry or an inheritance. He is not concerned for how this might affect Catherine, and he is only concerned about her feelings to the extent that he needs them to be favorable to him if he is to succeed."

More papers on A Review of "Washington Square":

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