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  • Essay / Marriage in Vanity Fair - 1702

    Marriage in Vanity FairMany of the characters in "Vanity Fair" are married from the beginning of the novel, or are engaged during the novel. The reasons for marriage vary from character to character, even within relationships. Although some may have love on their minds, it is the temptation of money and social status that encourages others to walk down the aisle. Perspectives on marriage also depend on position in the relationship. Mothers and fathers sometimes have more economic ideals while their children are in love, or even have no respect for each other. The novel's protagonist, Becky Sharp, laments not having a mother to whom she could leave the arduous task of finding a bride. Little is said about the relationship between Becky's parents. His father was an artist and his mother a French opera dancer. It is unlikely that, given that she was orphaned at a very young age, Becky would have been greatly affected in any way by her parents' relationship. Perhaps indirectly, she felt that because she was an orphan, her impact on society must be all the more memorable and successful. Even before being presented with the portrait of her friend Amelia's brother, Becky reasons: “If Mr. . Joseph Sedley is rich and single, why shouldn't I marry him? Although Becky sees this as an opportunity to join the Sedley family, initially of a certain position in society, Jos's behavior is not exemplary for a young gentleman. Before his drunken behavior at Vauxhall, he allows Becky to eat a hot pepper; an example of how he does not view the pursuit of marriage as a worthwhile occupation; it's not a hobby that concerns him, although he enjoys the attention Miss Sharp gives him. Sir Pitt Crawley has a similar lack of apprehension of the desire for advancement in society and wealth. attempts to start this relationship, it is Becky's similar motivations that are responsible for her relationship with Lord Steyne. She simply sees it as another rung on the ladder of society. However, he inadvertently gives a clue as to what else Becky wants from a relationship. When Rawdon attacks Steyne upon returning home, Becky admires Rawdon's physical strength. Again, this is a more material aspect of a relationship. The ideals behind marriage differ, often from one generation to the next. While parents may see economic and social gain, a situation like George and Amelia's poses problems when parental interference causes children to fall in love. Using Becky Sharp for marriage appears to be purely personal advancement. When a relationship ends, her regrets are based on what she lost rather than who..