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Questions and Answers
How does the setting of the novel change at the onset of Chapter 5?
How does the setting of the novel change at the onset of Chapter 5?
It changes from Lord Henry's point of view to Sibyl's.
What figurative language does Wilde employ in the sentence 'the joy of a caged bird was in her voice,' and how does this use of figurative language help characterize Sibyl?
What figurative language does Wilde employ in the sentence 'the joy of a caged bird was in her voice,' and how does this use of figurative language help characterize Sibyl?
A metaphor.
Why does James Vane plan to go to Australia?
Why does James Vane plan to go to Australia?
He wants to make a fortune.
What are Sibyl's mother's hopes in regard to 'Prince Charming'?
What are Sibyl's mother's hopes in regard to 'Prince Charming'?
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What do the hopes of Sibyl's mother reveal about her character?
What do the hopes of Sibyl's mother reveal about her character?
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What effect is achieved by the personification employed in the sentence 'he could hear the droning voice devouring each minute that was left to him'?
What effect is achieved by the personification employed in the sentence 'he could hear the droning voice devouring each minute that was left to him'?
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What is James Vane's prophetic promise in regard to 'Prince Charming'?
What is James Vane's prophetic promise in regard to 'Prince Charming'?
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What does James find out about his father, and how does his discovery affect his assessment of Sibyl's relationship with 'Prince Charming'?
What does James find out about his father, and how does his discovery affect his assessment of Sibyl's relationship with 'Prince Charming'?
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Study Notes
Setting and Perspective Shift
- The narrative perspective shifts from Lord Henry to Sibyl at the beginning of Chapter 5, creating a new emotional lens through which the story is experienced.
Figurative Language and Characterization
- Wilde employs a metaphor in describing Sibyl's voice as embodying "the joy of a caged bird," suggesting her current feelings of confinement and desire for freedom, enhancing her characterization as a trapped yet hopeful individual.
James Vane's Aspirations
- James Vane plans to travel to Australia with the goal of acquiring wealth, demonstrating his ambition and desire to escape his current life. He is currently employed in a solicitor's office, indicating his commitment to achieving this goal.
Sibyl’s Mother's Expectations
- Sibyl's mother harbors aspirations that her daughter’s suitor, referred to as "Prince Charming," belongs to the aristocracy, reflecting societal values surrounding marriage and class.
Insights into Sibyl's Mother’s Character
- The hopes of Sibyl's mother suggest a duality in her character: she may genuinely wish for her daughter's well-being by seeking a wealthy match, or she may embody a more selfish view that prioritizes financial security over genuine love.
Personification and Emotional Impact
- The sentence “he could hear the droning voice devouring each minute that was left to him” employs personification to illustrate the oppressive boredom experienced by the listener, enhancing the sense of time dragging painfully with malicious undertones.
James Vane's Threat
- James Vane makes a significant promise related to "Prince Charming," declaring that he would take violent action if harm were to come to Sibyl, showcasing his protective nature and foreshadowing potential conflict.
Family Revelation and Implications
- James discovers that his mother was never married to his father, which complicates his perception of love and relationships; he fears that Sibyl's future with "Prince Charming" may mirror his own family's instability, leading to skepticism about her happiness.
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Description
Explore the nuanced shifts in narrative perspective and character development in Chapter 5 of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. Analyze the figurative language that enhances Sibyl's characterization and the societal expectations her mother imposes on her. Delve into the ambitions of James Vane and how they reflect wider themes of class and aspiration.
