The Theme of Deception in Lady Audley's Secret holds or to the worldview. . is at the heart of an entire genre of fiction” (Introduction). In the story, Braddon's plot reflects this idea through mischievous action and mystery. It vividly expresses the conflict of deception between the characters involved in the dramatic events that occur. This deception exists at the heart of every relationship in the novel, particularly in the areas of love and family. It ranges from small mistakes to large projects that influence the lives of everyone associated with it. The relationships within this novel function as a primary means of harboring the shared quality of deception. No matter how personal or well-established the relationships appear to be, this attribute nevertheless exists to a general or astonishing degree. Also, despite the fact that relationships are sometimes tainted by deception, people continue their lives together. By presenting his characters with so many hidden desires and actions, Braddon attempts to reveal that deception embodies a controlling force in the lives of both protagonists and antagonists. It implies that deception is generally a characteristic feature of all relationships. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay. Braddon presents the relationship between Sir Michael and Lucy Audley as a fundamentally deceptive relationship that ultimately leads to their separation. They choose early on to be deceptive and avoid revealing their intentions. From the start, Michael convinces himself that having a young wife, who only loves him for his wealth, does not bother him. He desires to marry Lucy despite everything, and "his hope was that, as her life had probably been one of toil...by a protective care which should render necessary to her, win her young heart and obtain from her fresh love and early alone is the promise of his hand” (7) This passage illustrates the first instance of deception present in their courtship before marriage. Here Braddon suggests that deception may present itself in one way or another in. any relationship at any time and set the tone for the rest In this case, deception becomes an inherent dilemma from the start of their acquaintance. In “Taking the measure of human relationships: interview with Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc. Dardenne,” Joan and Dennis West delve into the inner workings of a relationship The authors believe the novel “follows complex characters as they grapple with difficult moral and ethical dilemmas” (14). reviewed a story in which the protagonist has a relationship with his father full of obvious deception, and he must choose between loyalty or what is best for himself. The fundamental trait of deception connects these two stories in that Michael and Lucy must make the same choice in their relationship. At first, Michael's deceptive actions suggest that they will at some point have to come to terms with the problems that encircle the novel's plot. In an article on "Acts of Madness: Lady Audley and the Meanings of Victorian Womanhood", the author examines the issue of deception in the realm of private relationships in Lady Audley's Secret. This article examines the idea that deception exists in Michael and Lucy's relationship as a way for them to ensure their own happiness. Lynn Voskuil writes: “A woman can be the docile channel of an idealized subjectivity or she can be the assertive protector of her family's well-being and her own. More precisely, she most likely plays thetwo roles at once” (612). This idea is true for Lucy who is constantly trying to protect herself at all costs. These attempts lead her to deception as she accepts Michael's advanced proposal. He says: “I won't ask too much of you. I dare say I am an old fool romantic; but if you don't hate me and don't love anyone else, I see no reason why we shouldn't be a very happy couple. Is this a good deal, Lucy? “Yes” (11). Because her options as a poor woman are limited, she chooses to be complacent, although he warns her that marrying someone she does not love must be one of the greatest sins. Braddon writes: “No more dependence, no more drudgery, no more humiliation,” she says; “Every trace of the old life is gone – every clue to identity buried and forgotten…” (12). It is Lucy's convincing statement that eases his mind regarding any guilt. She feels a sense of confidence in pretending to love Michael, without considering her true feelings. The idea that deception in the foundation of a relationship can penetrate somewhat unnoticed into this couple is evident in this situation, despite the amount of honest and sincere commitment expected. necessary in every marriage. Deception ensues as Michael and Lucy live out their lives together. Over time, Lucy completely deceives her husband and denies even the closest people access to her past life and disturbing experiences, "while she was talking, he fell into a relationship. chair near the where she knelt, and with clasped hands and head bent to catch every syllable of those horrible words, he listened as if his whole being had been resolved” (347). disastrous and seems reluctant to believe it after so much time Lucy has from the beginning created a gap of deception between them In "Acts of Madness", Voskuil lists several observations: Considered in the light of Lewes's theatrical theories, Lucy Audley is. suspicious because it realizes not a coherent and shared human nature, but a singular and idiosyncratic gendered self – a self that its theories latently recognized... psychiatrists explain the particularities which distinguish madness from normality. (615) This passage supports the idea that Lucy's deception develops from her idiosyncratic desire for assurance, and it suggests that she does not reveal her past because she wants to avoid the pain of her own memories by not revealing it. Lucy intentionally hides information about her marriage that could cause her to lose everything she has. It is this act of deception that ultimately leads her to mania and exit from this relationship. As Robert Audley finally confronts her, she is unable to face the reality that he knows all her secrets and, as a result, is overtaken by the "I'M MAD!" (346), she proclaims. The relationship between Robert and Alicia Audley is presented as one where elements of subtle deception are present, as in Audley Court. This deception exists between them because they fail to discuss their true feelings and emotions. Braddon writes: “The young man was a great favorite of his uncle, and by no means despised by his pretty, gipsy-faced, light-hearted Hoydenish cousin, Miss Alicia Audley” (33). Although Alicia and Robert are cousins, she loves him, but he never really lets her know that he doesn't share the same feelings. This subtle deception exists as a gray area between them. In "The Graying of Lady Audley's Secret", Harriet Blodgett states: "The important point of Braddon's control...the emphasis on grayness lies in his denial that truth is a distinctionsimply knowable between black and white or that it can be discovered in any purely factual account. " (137). In reality, their relationship has certain qualities of truth and deception, so that this deception is not easily detectable, even if it is obvious to readers. Alicia makes an underlying reference to his love for Robert in his letters however finds the idea of him falling in love ridiculous as he seems very reserved when it comes to emotion. Braddon also features scenes where Alicia scolds him about his ways regarding love and reserved treatment. to his dearest friends He says: “Alicia, my darling, what is it?... What does all this mean? How charmingly she holds her horse! What a pretty figure too... but to fly on a boy like that, without the slightest provocation” (116). Robert's emotional reserve is a deceptive act even if it is a family relationship. He remains steadfast and reflects on Alicia's emotional expression, refusing to address her feelings and admit that his are the opposite. The deception that subtly exists between Robert and Alicia may not be unusual, as people often tend to not mention truths that they believe will cause someone emotional distress. . Therefore, a person may eventually ignore the deception. Braddon highlights this fact by revealing that even loved ones coexist with deception among them. Blodgett highlights a bold notion about Robert by stating that “the investigation of the facts only breeds excess guilt in him; instead of the truth making him free, he bears” (138). This concept is revealed in Robert and Alicia because the more they try to know each other's thoughts, the more anxiety they attract to each other. This explains how, without investigation, deception can exist without any noticeable effect. This is a testament to how cheating happens in every relationship. In Acts of Madness, Voskuil explores the notion of “natural play” as a theory explaining the legibility of human behavior. “For Lewes, the idealized and transcendent “common [human] nature” made it possible to establish connections between the inner and outer selves... By mid-century, according to Roger Smith, most British medical writers had “consciously adopted a physiological idiom”. " (615). Voskuil examines this theory because it relates to Lady Audley's Secret in the realm of human interaction and relationships, revealing that the true character is unknown. Throughout Braddon's novel, numerous relationships are at work, and it reveals the relevance of deception in the sphere of "common human nature" in everyday life. Deception is a common quality simply because individuals choose primarily to keep the harsh reality to themselves. inner feelings or truths they have for others. Lucy has a relationship with each other with unknown qualities of deception. The mystery of deception surrounds their interactions. First, Lucy does her best to postpone and avoid the visit of. Robert at Audley Court as she plans to avoid George Talboys who will accompany her. However, Robert, being completely in the dark about this affair and her deception, only thinks twice about it later. Braddon writes: "When Robert was therefore about to enter the inn, all it took was the slightest raising of Lucy's eyebrows... to make her husband understand that she did not want to bother with an introduction. ..” (55). With these two, Braddon expands on the various deceptions that can take place in a seemingly simple relationship, even if the people are not emotionally involved and one party is unaware of the deception. InThe article “Relationships in King Lear”, Paul Alpers examines the concept of bond, family relationships. It presents the idea that “relationships, in all their messy and palpable complexity, precede and define recognition” and “can become a form of subjugation and oppression” (47). Braddon's novel mirrors this concept with Robert and Lucy Audley because the deception later present defines the true nature of their relationship as being the opposite of what was initially expected. In one instance, Robert innocently inquires about George Talboy, stating, "God forbid!" But I can't help feeling uneasy about it” (87), as Lucy gives a “nervous shudder” and denies any knowledge of the affair. Thus, she makes herself suspect of knowing something. Their relationship illustrates how present and influential deception can be, whether known or unknown at first. "A Dialectic of Deception: The Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton, "Jean Witherow explores the concept of deception. “Wharton explores the intricacies of language as language deceives and inadvertently reflects…inner lives…Language as a tool of deception is often noted in critical discourse” (11). deceptive language prevails at Robert's expense. Lucy tries to persuade her husband to avoid Robert because he is trying to investigate her past knowledge of George Braddon notes: He will go this evening, cried Sir Michael. I was a blind and careless fool not to have thought of it before, my lovely little darling, it wasn't fair to Bob to expose the poor boy to your fascinations. I know he is such a good man and. sincere as ever, but... but... he will leave tonight (128) According to Witherow's theory, Lucy uses the talk with her husband to deceive him. His deception in turn reflects his own life, filled with guilt and sorrow. She further uses subtle language to deceive Robert about her expulsion herself, in an attempt to place the blame on her husband for what happened. Braddon states: "Lucy Audley spoke with that peculiar childish vivacity which seemed so natural to her...animated face" (138). Robert endures this deceptive action because he realizes that Lucy is desperately trying to evade suspicion. Wharton considers this "the dialect of deception" (12), where his past secrets are made manifest by his deception, which alerts the suspicions of those around him. Braddon clearly presents deception as a controlling force in the protagonists' relationships within this novel. She states that deception is a fundamental characteristic of any form of relationship. Throughout the novel, she vividly explores the main characters' experiences of deception and how it affects them personally. Braddon examines the idea that people's true nature can never truly be known. The relationship between Sir Michael and Lucy Audley characterizes fundamental deception due to their deceptive actions and describes how some relationships are based on deception. The implication here is that in their courtship, they continually seek to protect themselves from certain feelings and, therefore, must hide things. The complexity of a relationship of this magnitude is that people are faced with the ethical dilemma of securing their own happiness through any means of deception (Joan and Dennis West). The relationship between Robert Audley and Alicia Audley as cousins depicts subtle deception in the most simplistic way. During an argument, they both hide their feelings towards each other for various reasons. Harriet Blodgett writes about the gray area of deception that exists between Robert and Alicia, because deception as well as truth 36 (2003): 11-21.

Essay / The Theme of Deception in Lady Audley's Secret holds or to the worldview. . is at the heart of an entire genre of fiction” (Introduction). In the story, Braddon's plot reflects this idea through mischievous action and mystery. It vividly expresses the conflict of deception between the characters involved in the dramatic events that occur. This deception exists at the heart of every relationship in the novel, particularly in the areas of love and family. It ranges from small mistakes to large projects that influence the lives of everyone associated with it. The relationships within this novel function as a primary means of harboring the shared quality of deception. No matter how personal or well-established the relationships appear to be, this attribute nevertheless exists to a general or astonishing degree. Also, despite the fact that relationships are sometimes tainted by deception, people continue their lives together. By presenting his characters with so many hidden desires and actions, Braddon attempts to reveal that deception embodies a controlling force in the lives of both protagonists and antagonists. It implies that deception is generally a characteristic feature of all relationships. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay. Braddon presents the relationship between Sir Michael and Lucy Audley as a fundamentally deceptive relationship that ultimately leads to their separation. They choose early on to be deceptive and avoid revealing their intentions. From the start, Michael convinces himself that having a young wife, who only loves him for his wealth, does not bother him. He desires to marry Lucy despite everything, and "his hope was that, as her life had probably been one of toil...by a protective care which should render necessary to her, win her young heart and obtain from her fresh love and early alone is the promise of his hand” (7) This passage illustrates the first instance of deception present in their courtship before marriage. Here Braddon suggests that deception may present itself in one way or another in. any relationship at any time and set the tone for the rest In this case, deception becomes an inherent dilemma from the start of their acquaintance. In “Taking the measure of human relationships: interview with Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc. Dardenne,” Joan and Dennis West delve into the inner workings of a relationship The authors believe the novel “follows complex characters as they grapple with difficult moral and ethical dilemmas” (14). reviewed a story in which the protagonist has a relationship with his father full of obvious deception, and he must choose between loyalty or what is best for himself. The fundamental trait of deception connects these two stories in that Michael and Lucy must make the same choice in their relationship. At first, Michael's deceptive actions suggest that they will at some point have to come to terms with the problems that encircle the novel's plot. In an article on "Acts of Madness: Lady Audley and the Meanings of Victorian Womanhood", the author examines the issue of deception in the realm of private relationships in Lady Audley's Secret. This article examines the idea that deception exists in Michael and Lucy's relationship as a way for them to ensure their own happiness. Lynn Voskuil writes: “A woman can be the docile channel of an idealized subjectivity or she can be the assertive protector of her family's well-being and her own. More precisely, she most likely plays thetwo roles at once” (612). This idea is true for Lucy who is constantly trying to protect herself at all costs. These attempts lead her to deception as she accepts Michael's advanced proposal. He says: “I won't ask too much of you. I dare say I am an old fool romantic; but if you don't hate me and don't love anyone else, I see no reason why we shouldn't be a very happy couple. Is this a good deal, Lucy? “Yes” (11). Because her options as a poor woman are limited, she chooses to be complacent, although he warns her that marrying someone she does not love must be one of the greatest sins. Braddon writes: “No more dependence, no more drudgery, no more humiliation,” she says; “Every trace of the old life is gone – every clue to identity buried and forgotten…” (12). It is Lucy's convincing statement that eases his mind regarding any guilt. She feels a sense of confidence in pretending to love Michael, without considering her true feelings. The idea that deception in the foundation of a relationship can penetrate somewhat unnoticed into this couple is evident in this situation, despite the amount of honest and sincere commitment expected. necessary in every marriage. Deception ensues as Michael and Lucy live out their lives together. Over time, Lucy completely deceives her husband and denies even the closest people access to her past life and disturbing experiences, "while she was talking, he fell into a relationship. chair near the where she knelt, and with clasped hands and head bent to catch every syllable of those horrible words, he listened as if his whole being had been resolved” (347). disastrous and seems reluctant to believe it after so much time Lucy has from the beginning created a gap of deception between them In "Acts of Madness", Voskuil lists several observations: Considered in the light of Lewes's theatrical theories, Lucy Audley is. suspicious because it realizes not a coherent and shared human nature, but a singular and idiosyncratic gendered self – a self that its theories latently recognized... psychiatrists explain the particularities which distinguish madness from normality. (615) This passage supports the idea that Lucy's deception develops from her idiosyncratic desire for assurance, and it suggests that she does not reveal her past because she wants to avoid the pain of her own memories by not revealing it. Lucy intentionally hides information about her marriage that could cause her to lose everything she has. It is this act of deception that ultimately leads her to mania and exit from this relationship. As Robert Audley finally confronts her, she is unable to face the reality that he knows all her secrets and, as a result, is overtaken by the "I'M MAD!" (346), she proclaims. The relationship between Robert and Alicia Audley is presented as one where elements of subtle deception are present, as in Audley Court. This deception exists between them because they fail to discuss their true feelings and emotions. Braddon writes: “The young man was a great favorite of his uncle, and by no means despised by his pretty, gipsy-faced, light-hearted Hoydenish cousin, Miss Alicia Audley” (33). Although Alicia and Robert are cousins, she loves him, but he never really lets her know that he doesn't share the same feelings. This subtle deception exists as a gray area between them. In "The Graying of Lady Audley's Secret", Harriet Blodgett states: "The important point of Braddon's control...the emphasis on grayness lies in his denial that truth is a distinctionsimply knowable between black and white or that it can be discovered in any purely factual account. " (137). In reality, their relationship has certain qualities of truth and deception, so that this deception is not easily detectable, even if it is obvious to readers. Alicia makes an underlying reference to his love for Robert in his letters however finds the idea of him falling in love ridiculous as he seems very reserved when it comes to emotion. Braddon also features scenes where Alicia scolds him about his ways regarding love and reserved treatment. to his dearest friends He says: “Alicia, my darling, what is it?... What does all this mean? How charmingly she holds her horse! What a pretty figure too... but to fly on a boy like that, without the slightest provocation” (116). Robert's emotional reserve is a deceptive act even if it is a family relationship. He remains steadfast and reflects on Alicia's emotional expression, refusing to address her feelings and admit that his are the opposite. The deception that subtly exists between Robert and Alicia may not be unusual, as people often tend to not mention truths that they believe will cause someone emotional distress. . Therefore, a person may eventually ignore the deception. Braddon highlights this fact by revealing that even loved ones coexist with deception among them. Blodgett highlights a bold notion about Robert by stating that “the investigation of the facts only breeds excess guilt in him; instead of the truth making him free, he bears” (138). This concept is revealed in Robert and Alicia because the more they try to know each other's thoughts, the more anxiety they attract to each other. This explains how, without investigation, deception can exist without any noticeable effect. This is a testament to how cheating happens in every relationship. In Acts of Madness, Voskuil explores the notion of “natural play” as a theory explaining the legibility of human behavior. “For Lewes, the idealized and transcendent “common [human] nature” made it possible to establish connections between the inner and outer selves... By mid-century, according to Roger Smith, most British medical writers had “consciously adopted a physiological idiom”. " (615). Voskuil examines this theory because it relates to Lady Audley's Secret in the realm of human interaction and relationships, revealing that the true character is unknown. Throughout Braddon's novel, numerous relationships are at work, and it reveals the relevance of deception in the sphere of "common human nature" in everyday life. Deception is a common quality simply because individuals choose primarily to keep the harsh reality to themselves. inner feelings or truths they have for others. Lucy has a relationship with each other with unknown qualities of deception. The mystery of deception surrounds their interactions. First, Lucy does her best to postpone and avoid the visit of. Robert at Audley Court as she plans to avoid George Talboys who will accompany her. However, Robert, being completely in the dark about this affair and her deception, only thinks twice about it later. Braddon writes: "When Robert was therefore about to enter the inn, all it took was the slightest raising of Lucy's eyebrows... to make her husband understand that she did not want to bother with an introduction. ..” (55). With these two, Braddon expands on the various deceptions that can take place in a seemingly simple relationship, even if the people are not emotionally involved and one party is unaware of the deception. InThe article “Relationships in King Lear”, Paul Alpers examines the concept of bond, family relationships. It presents the idea that “relationships, in all their messy and palpable complexity, precede and define recognition” and “can become a form of subjugation and oppression” (47). Braddon's novel mirrors this concept with Robert and Lucy Audley because the deception later present defines the true nature of their relationship as being the opposite of what was initially expected. In one instance, Robert innocently inquires about George Talboy, stating, "God forbid!" But I can't help feeling uneasy about it” (87), as Lucy gives a “nervous shudder” and denies any knowledge of the affair. Thus, she makes herself suspect of knowing something. Their relationship illustrates how present and influential deception can be, whether known or unknown at first. "A Dialectic of Deception: The Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton, "Jean Witherow explores the concept of deception. “Wharton explores the intricacies of language as language deceives and inadvertently reflects…inner lives…Language as a tool of deception is often noted in critical discourse” (11). deceptive language prevails at Robert's expense. Lucy tries to persuade her husband to avoid Robert because he is trying to investigate her past knowledge of George Braddon notes: He will go this evening, cried Sir Michael. I was a blind and careless fool not to have thought of it before, my lovely little darling, it wasn't fair to Bob to expose the poor boy to your fascinations. I know he is such a good man and. sincere as ever, but... but... he will leave tonight (128) According to Witherow's theory, Lucy uses the talk with her husband to deceive him. His deception in turn reflects his own life, filled with guilt and sorrow. She further uses subtle language to deceive Robert about her expulsion herself, in an attempt to place the blame on her husband for what happened. Braddon states: "Lucy Audley spoke with that peculiar childish vivacity which seemed so natural to her...animated face" (138). Robert endures this deceptive action because he realizes that Lucy is desperately trying to evade suspicion. Wharton considers this "the dialect of deception" (12), where his past secrets are made manifest by his deception, which alerts the suspicions of those around him. Braddon clearly presents deception as a controlling force in the protagonists' relationships within this novel. She states that deception is a fundamental characteristic of any form of relationship. Throughout the novel, she vividly explores the main characters' experiences of deception and how it affects them personally. Braddon examines the idea that people's true nature can never truly be known. The relationship between Sir Michael and Lucy Audley characterizes fundamental deception due to their deceptive actions and describes how some relationships are based on deception. The implication here is that in their courtship, they continually seek to protect themselves from certain feelings and, therefore, must hide things. The complexity of a relationship of this magnitude is that people are faced with the ethical dilemma of securing their own happiness through any means of deception (Joan and Dennis West). The relationship between Robert Audley and Alicia Audley as cousins depicts subtle deception in the most simplistic way. During an argument, they both hide their feelings towards each other for various reasons. Harriet Blodgett writes about the gray area of deception that exists between Robert and Alicia, because deception as well as truth 36 (2003): 11-21.

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