Ethos économique féminin chez Louise d’Epinay et Isabelle de Charrière
Abstract:
This article discusses the relationship between women’s discourse and economic considerations in so-called “sentimental novels”, tradition-ally focusing on marriage projects of the protagonists. A comparative reading of narrative fictions by Louise d’Epinay and Isabelle de Char-rière shows the different strategies adopted by the novelists, allowing their heroines to discuss financial questions repeatedly and in some detail. Louise d’Epinay is shown having a more traditional and defen-sive attitude: the former opposition between morals and economy is still present. Isabelle de Charrière on the other hand presents a more complex reflection, reworking the financial question and contesting the quantitative perspective determining the flow of human relation-ships. Charrière in particular identifies an economic and quantitative inflexion, not only in matrimonial strategies, but also in individual and intimate choices for the object of love.
SvD, January 2014
- Publications > Belle de Zuylen Papers > 2013 > Magnot-Ogilvy