"Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Tracy Chevalier

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the novel 'Girl With a Pearl Earring' by Tracy Chevalier in relation to control and choice. The paper discusses how, in the character of Griet, one learns that the upper class controls the lower classes to a certain degree, but is derailed though her talent as a painter. By working as a maid for Vermeer she often appears the oppressed subject of her master, but to her surprise, she is equally as talented as her upper class master.

From the Paper:

"This literary study will examine the nature of control and choice within the novel 'Girl With a Pearl Earring' by Tracy Chevalier. By understanding the class orientation that enslaves Griet as a servant to the Vermeer household, one can realize how social constructs do not control or restrain the freedoms of the individual. Although Griet is enslaved through a class apparatus through Vermeer's upper class status, one learns of her ability to rise above her station through intelligence and artistic talent. In essence, social class control is negated through individual choice in 'Girl With a Pearl Earring', as Griet defies the limitations of her lower class upbringing. The class status of Griet is clearly on that does not due justice to her intelligence and artistic perspective. "

More papers on "Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Tracy Chevalier:

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