Daisy Miller : Book Review


Book Review

Title: Daisy Miller
Author: Henry James
Genre: Fiction

Customs differ from country to country. It is interesting to observe that what is acceptable in one may be considered inappropriate in another. Author Henry James explores this in Daisy Miller. 

The book follows the life of Daisy-an American teenage girl who is on a vacation in Europe with her mother and younger brother. She becomes acquainted with Winterbourne and later with an Italian man named Giovanelli. Her flirtatious  nature and carefree demeanor is frowned upon by the conservative society. They ostracize her and in turn she dismisses their wagging tongues. 

The story is narrated from the perspective of Winterbourne and his changing perspective on Daisy. It explores the mind of a young woman who lives life on her own terms. The writing style is easy and conversational, compared to the language used in The Turn of the Screw.

 The author uses this book to describe how society tends to treat outsiders and those who do not adhere to their prescribed norms. These prejudices can be found even today across different cultures. He also brings to light Roman Fever that was common those days. It's also interesting to observe the symbolic relevance of the character' names to their personalities. Daisy is believed to represent spring and joy while Winterbourne appears to be stiff and cold as Daisy puts it. While the narrative isnt too long, Daisy Miller is a read that is bound to spark off some intense discussions. 


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