Confusion due to Convention

           Thus far, in my reading of Daisy Miller, I have noticed the puzzling affects of Daisy's behavior for Winterbourne. Daisy, because of the societal norms in this period, was apparently acting out of her proper role as a young woman. She was a flirt and highly disapproved of by others, especially Mrs. Walker as we saw in the carriage scene.

           I don't find Daisy to be acting in sort of way that is what I consider risky, but, of course, we live in a very different day! However, for her time, Daisy was acting out and her unorthodox behavior led on Winterbourne and possibly other suitors which I found to be unfair. I like Winterbourne's character; despite his snobbish aunt's remarks, he desires to acquaint himself with Daisy. Like Mrs. Costello, Mrs. Walker finds Daisy’s behavior to be very unorthodox and crass. Both of these women come from an age where there was an even greater emphasis on ladylike comportment and they are used to a certain European elegance. To these women, Daisy’s carefree attitude is disagreeable.

          As far as we can tell, Daisy is a very curious girl. We can't blame her for that; she's presented with adventure and novelty in cities such as Geneva and Rome. As I said, she needs to be careful because there are men, like Winterbourne, who are not used to this sort of behavior. The social conventions, that so heavily emphasize women’s behavioral standards, cause confusion and misunderstanding for men. For Winterbourne, Daisy is most certainly a unique girl. Beyond behavior norms, Daisy often perplexes others by her selfish and unrefined words and actions; she often gives the impression of a spoiled and ornery person. Her behavior has led me to lose conviction that she acts in the spirit of innocence and inquiry.

Daisy Miller’s behavior challenges social norms, making her a disagreeable personality to the elderly, traditional kind and an enigma to poor chaps like Winterbourne who just want to get to know her.

Questions:
1. As for the character of Daisy Miller, what overarching message/theme do you think Henry James is conveying to his audience through her? In other words, what is the point of the character of Daisy Miller?

2. Do you sympathize with Daisy Miller because she is simply a young girl desiring experience or do you see her as a troublemaker and a flirt? If you were a European at this time, would you be disturbed by an American frolicking throughout your world in such a manner?

3. The story is told through the eyes of Winterbourne and we know what he thinks in his head is much different from what he actually says; what does his narration tell you about the character, Winterbourne?