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Summary and Analysis of Volume I, Books 1-2
Volume I: Book First: Section I: Lewis Lambert Strether has arrived in the English town of Chester. He is from Woollett, Massachusetts and he looks forward to meeting his old friend Mr. Waymarsh, a lawyer from Milrose, Connecticut. Both men are slightly past middle age; it has been awhile since they last saw each other, and Strether is aggravated by the fact that Waymarsh is far more "successful" in the world. Awaiting Waymarsh's arrival in the hotel lobby, Strether meets a woman who surprises him with her acute social sense. She seems to be somewhat acquainted with Waymarsh and also with the town of Chester. Maria Gostrey is an American who has spent much time in Europe. She easily spots the American newcomers and she assists them. The three Americans travel to London. Section II: Strether has a "joyless" time with Waymarsh and he feels inferior to Waymarsh and Gostrey, whose are both more sociable and at ease. Waymarsh and Strether communicate by code, and the details of Strether's story regarding Mrs. Newsome only gradually comes out. Waymarsh continually expresses his disapproval of Strether's plan - though it is unclear precisely what Strether is planning to do. Section III: Waymarsh and Strether will eventually continue to France. Strether and Gostrey will part ways though only briefly, for Gostrey promises Strether that she will come to Paris and lend her assistance. Towards the end of Book First, Strether and Gostrey have grown close and Waymarsh now stands as the outsider. Strether describes Waymarsh's "sacred rage" and general disinterest in worldly things. Strether and Gostrey intend to enjoy what time in London they have left. AnalysisFrom the beginning, the relationship between Strether and Gostrey is described in images and metaphors. Strether has arrived in Europe to do good, but he is rather clueless, naÔve, childlike. Gostrey plays a maternal role to Strether. Her name, 'Maria,' brings connotations of the Virgin Mary that are not inconsistent with the savior-role that Strether attempts to fulfill in the novel. At one point, Gostrey took Strether's hand and "led him forth into the world." In conversation with Strether, Gostrey describes herself using the Greek god Atlas as metaphor: "I bear on my back the huge load of our national consciousness, or, in other words - for it comes to that - of our nation itself. Of what is our nation composed but of the men and women individually on my shoulders?" Far more than a tour "guide," Gostrey becomes Strether's moral guide and offers to help him through the difficulties ahead. The narrative structure prevents the story from reaching the point of clarity. We know very little about what Strether intends to do, only we know that this is not an ordinary vacation. Already, the theme of travel, expatriation and repatriation is presented. Clearly, James' concern with Americans in Europe is largely autobiographical. Perhaps most important, the social interactions between Gostrey, Waymarsh and Strether are incredibly complicated and almost ritualistic. Once in Paris, Strether will find that Society looms in an even more overwhelming manner. Strategy is an essential theme to the novel, as there is a serious conflict of interests. Strether arrives in Europe to defend Mrs. Newsome's interest but he will meet a good amount of resistance. The suspense is not used for dramatic effect in Book First. Many questions are left unanswered, but this is more a result of the dense, psychologically focused style of Henry James. Details are not being withheld for the purpose of suspense. Rather, details have been suspended so that more primary details may be described. We gain a sense of Strether's inherent weakness well before we find out what his mission is. Gostrey is installed as a source of wisdom and fact (both for Strether and the reader) well before her genius is applied to the novel's central complications. Book Second: Section I: Thinking about his time in London, Strether cannot help but compare Gostrey to Mrs. Newsome, and also compare London to Boston and Woollett. In Gostrey's presence, Strether feels quite "imperfect." In conversation with Gostrey, Strether reveals that his wife and son had both died years ago, leaving him alone in a "grey middle desert." In London, Strether reveals more of the story to Gostrey: he has come to find Mrs. Newsome's son, Chadwick (Chad), and bring him home. Gostrey intuits that this is the "mission of separating [Chad] from the wicked woman." Strether has few facts but he is rather sure that this is the task at hand. The Newsomes are described as a family of very dominant women. Mrs. Newsome and her daughter (Chad's sister) Sally Pocock are very firm. Mrs. Newsome, lives the life of an invalid, it seems. She is strong mentally but not at all physically. Hence, Strether has become her "ambassador" to Paris, charged with the task of saving Chad from harm. Perhaps, Chad might marry Mamie Pocock, who is the sister of his brother-in-law, Jim Pocock. Chad is to return home and work in the family business. Gostrey also hits on the fact that there is some sort of romance or potential for marriage between the widowed Mrs. Newsome and Strether. Though Strether does not view himself as a success, Gostrey helps him realize that he is the closest to a success as is to be found in Woollett. Strether realizes that he stands to lose "everything" if he fails in his task. Section II: Strether and Waymarsh arrive in Paris and conduct some financial business at the bank. The two friends spend some time together and much of the previous uneasiness has dissipated. Strether is relieved when letters from Mrs. Newsome begin to arrive. At the same time, he is subject to the passions and power of the city of Paris. It has been a long time since Strether visited and he finds himself searching to see which buildings of his memory remain. Just as Paris charms Strether, Paris brings home the fact of Strether's age. He cannot help but wonder whether he is too old and too incompetent to fulfill the mission assigned. Analysis: In Book Second, we receive most of the crucial details of Strether's mission, and the story is not at all novel or unique. It does seem clear, however, that the psychological focus on Strether is going to be more important than the actual attempt to bring Chad back to Woollett. There is certainly a contrast between the European metropolis and the American town. Separate from this larger social issue, is the personal and private drama occurring within Strether's mind. There is a metaphor of the drama on stage as a symbol of society and social engagements. Like actors in costume, socialites pose, pretend, and play. Here, there is an added dimension to the performances: Strether's thoughts are on display. We learn of his copious insecurities and his ambitious hopes. Gostrey is largely opposite to Sterther, though they get along with each other very well. Strether focuses on the essence of the thing, while Gsotrey wants facts. Strether understands people within the context of relationships. Gostrey seeks people as 'types.' Gostrey hopes to shield Strether from the fall-out of his expectations: it is already implied that Strether is dear to Mrs. Newsome so long as he is able to do what she requests. It also seems that Mrs. Newsome has more than a few potential ambassadors that she can send, should Strether fail. Finally, the letters to and from Mrs. Newsome are an important motif in the novel. The letters establish the connection between Strether and his obligation, his native country, and his employer. The letters may or may not be factual and/or punctual. The punctual stream of letters and money from Mrs. Newsome assure Strether that he will not be stranded in Paris nor deserted in Woollett. Strether's obligation is to send factual information - and so, he must discover the facts. It is hardly an understatement when Strether says that he risks losing "everything" should he fail. Even his psychological condition is highly sensitive to his self-perceived success and failure.
Summary and Analysis of Volume I, Books 3-4
Book Third: Section I: Strether and Waymarsh are in conversation. It appears that Strether has little knowledge of how things are, and so Waymarsh assists his friend in sorting out the information. Chad Newsome is in Cannes, a principal resort town on the Riviera. It is unknown whether Chad is there with a woman, but it seems not impossible. Maria Gostrey has not yet arrived in Paris, and this fact adds to Strether's insecurity. In the meantime, Strether does some investigating on his own. He meets a friend of Chad's, a young man named John Little Bilham. He is a short, small, American young man who is in Paris because he is an artist. While Chad is away, he is having Bilham watch his apartment. Strether is more impressed with the city of Paris and with Chad's friend Bilham, than Waymarsh is. In fact, Waymarsh suggests that Strether quit the job and avoid getting "spoiled." Strether wants to marry Mrs. Newsome, however, and he does not see this happening if he cannot first get Chad back to the United States. Also, he sees his own financial prospects as better off if Chad is in the family business. Bilham accompanies Strether and Waymarsh to meet Miss Barrace, another friend of Chad. Both Bilham and Barrace testify to how good Paris has been for Chad and how much Chad has changed. Neither sees anything serious or problematic in Chad's present arrangement. Section II: Maria Gostrey arrives in Paris and she settles into her place in Le Quartier Marboeuf, a fashionable modern enclave on the Right Bank of the Seine River. Her apartment is an 'empire of things' that leaves Strether in awe. Strether is concerned that he might have befriended Bilham too quickly and too resolutely. Perhaps, he has lost some leverage in negotiation. Maria Gostrey will see Bilham and judge the scenario for herself. Strether tries to get Maria Gostrey current, but it is clear that he has no facts to announce save that Chad is in Cannes. Maria Gostrey states that Cannes "is best," and that Chad has gone to Cannes alone, to spend time with Society. Gostrey is certain that she is not with him, alluding to the as yet unidentified woman keeping Chad in France. The next day, Strether, Bilham, and Maria Gostrey meet at the Louvre. Later, Strether and Maria Gostrey invite Bilham to see a play. Maria Gostrey has access to a theatre box at Le ThÃâtre de ComÃdie FranÃ?aise. Bilham neither sends a note nor shows up to the evening performance. Maria Gostrey worries that Paris is spoiling Bilham, and Waymarsh holds a similar opinion. Just as Maria Gostrey touches on the idea that Bilham and Chad are conspiring, Chad enters the theatre box - in Bilham's place, apparently. Strether is shocked by how aged Chad now looks; Strether also admires Chad's grace and smooth entry. Little is said, but Strether cannot pay attention to the play. He thinks about what telegraph to send to Mrs. Newsome: "Awfully old-grey hair." After the play, Strether and Maria Gostrey share an unspoken understanding that Strether must go somewhere to have a talk with Chad immediately. AnalysisStrether's romanticism of Paris appears "in the very taste of the soup." The glorification of Paris is part of Strether's disconnect with reality. We learn repeatedly that Strether knows very little and has few strategies worth implementing. The dynamic between Bilham and Chad Newsome suggests that Strether may need even more help than Waymarsh and Gostrey can supply. Bilham is a comical character who plays the foil of Chad Newsome. Bilham occupies Chad's apartment and he is amiable and easygoing. Chad, on the other hand, is grave: Paris has aged him. In narrative terms, Chad's entry into the story comes by means of Bilham's declined invitation: Chad has taken Bilham's place at the theatre, just as Bilham has been occupying Chad's place all along. Strether's blind romanticism interferes with his ability to detect these subtleties. The older Americans are the new arrivals on the Parisian scene; the younger Americans have been in Paris for the last few years. What might have been a story about travel has become a story complicated by concerns with expatriation and repatriation. Viewing the budding community of bohemian Americans, the older Americans wonder whether 'specimens' like Bilham and Chad can be put to good use at home. This reinforces the idea of 'types' that was initiated in Book First. Waymarsh consistently argues that Strether is "not one of them," i.e. a person like the Newsomes. Their values, manners, and practices are different. Already, Strether is proven ill-equipped to maneuver. Book Third ends with suspense. How has Chad changed? What 'type' has he become - has he been "ruined"? The dominant plot-line involves the potential ruin, destruction, and pollution of youth. Young Americans have come to Paris and older Americans have arrived as a rescue party. The subtle and minor plot-line involves Strether's own risks. He will need to be careful not to become 'ruined' himself. Book Fourth: Section I: Lambert tells Chad that he has come to Paris to take the young man home. Chad replies that he has "improved." Chad also appears supportive of Lambert's engagement to Chad's mother, Mrs. Newsome. When Lambert returns to the subject of Chad's return home, Chad becomes defensive, saying: "you all imagined horrors." Chad's argument is that Woollett's small-town "low-mind" mentality has simply assumed the worst without considering the possibility of something else having occurred. Chad insists that no woman is keeping him in Europe; Paris is keeping him. Strether's estimation of Chad rises considerably. Section II: Lambert writes to Mrs. Newsome and though he considers his struggle to be akin to a war, he insists that Chad is friendly. He is sure that success will be his ultimately, noting that Chad "did treat everything as tacitly concluded." It is only a matter of when Chad will return home - not whether he will return. Still, Lambert is worried that he is being fooled by Chad. He is convinced that Mrs. Newsome would not be so easily fooled. Lambert consoles himself with the fact that Maria Gostrey will be able to find everything out. When Lambert sees Gostrey, she insists that there is a woman in the background, adding that Chad is likely seeking an honorable way to disconnect himself from her. Chad hosts a tea where Strether, Bilham, Barrace, Gostrey and Waymarsh are all present, among others. Chad's "virtuous attachment" is mentioned: a euphemism for the woman in the background who has apparently been the cause of Chad's improvement. There are two ladies, a mother and daughter, who appear to be from a noble family. Chad has brought them in the hopes that they would meet Lambert's approval, and perhaps Lambert might help Chad advocate his position. Lambert is unclear on which of the two women is the "virtuous attachment," but he says that he does not want to know anything more about Chad's Parisian lifestyle. Gostrey replies to Strether: "Wasn't what you came out for to find out all?" Analysis: Chad's 'improvement' is a central element within the motif of Paris as a romantic and romanticized city. The larger theme of youth vs. age is also complicated here. Strether sees Chad's "confounded grey hair" and wonders whether the transformation has been natural, or perhaps even miraculous. Chad half-heartedly argues that Paris alone keeps him and Paris has changed him. Even when Chad's argument becomes transparent, Paris still figures as an active force. The woman in the background is simply an extension of Paris and Parisian-ness. What remains to be seen is whether this "virtuous attachment" will withstand the challenge from Woollett. The novel is named The Ambassadors. Strether and Waymarsh are the first ambassadors, though it is Strether who has been assigned by Mrs. Newsome to his ambassadorial task. Mrs. Newsome remains offstage, but Strether's language hints at the future arrival of more "ambassadors" should Chad not prove to be an easy conquest. The Ambassadors becomes a novel of strategy by Book Fourth, with the characters quickly arranging themselves into factions with interests to defend. Strether is weak in areas of strategy, though he has Waymarsh and Gostrey to assist him. On the other hand, Chad has Bilham and Barrace on his side. Moreover, Chad's hospitality in Paris threatens to become a trap for his opponents. In accepting the invitation to tea, Strether is now confronted with the prospect of meeting Chad's "attachment." Strether had no previous intention of such a meeting. Even worse, Chad has seized upon Strether's agreeable personality: the young Mr. Newsome hopes to pull a coup in convincing Strether to let himself become charmed by Chad's attachment. Strether will struggle to balance his instinctual desire to please Chad, his spiritual connection with romanticized Paris, and his need to successfully perform for Mrs. Newsome. Chad soon offers Strether the opportunity to become a double-agent, the precise opposite of his ambassadorial role. This should not be a surprise to the reader, though. Chad, Bilham and Barrace have already been dishonest in their dealings with Strether. The theme of strategy focuses on information gathering and duplicity. Gostrey pushes Strether to gather information, so that he might have more leverage and negotiating power. But Strether has not yet learned how to read information. He fails to distinguish among lies, illusions, and truth. In essence, Strether too readily accepts 'beauty' as truth. Unfortunately, Chad and his friends take their cues from the city itself; within their promises of hospitality, there is a whole host of beautiful lies. Chad and his partners do not intend to harm Strether. They simply seek their collective interest.
Summary and Analysis of Volume I, Books 5-6
Book Fifth: Section I: The Sunday of the next week, Strether and others accompany Chad to the garden party of the famed sculptor, Gloriani. Strether realizes that Gloriani is a very important person, and so he hopes to make a positive impression. Strether is taken aback by the variety of people who are present at the party. A number of the guests are collectors of art, much like Gloriani. In conversation with Miss Barrace and Little Bilham, Strether seeks to learn more about Chad's "virtuous attachment." It is unclear to Strether whether Madame de Vionnet or her daughter is the object of Chad's ardor; Strether does not get an answer to this question. Waymarsh is quite a success at the party, without intending to be anything of the sort. He is described as being "Michelangelesque" and, of course, Strether feels all the more insecure. He has no time for extended introspection, however. Chad intends for Strether to meet Madame de Vionnet. Section II: Strether is nervous when Chad brings him to see Madame de Vionnet. Madame de Vionnet asks Strether whether Miss Gostrey has put in a good word for her. Gostrey has not said anything about de Vionnet - apparently, they know each other quite well. Madame de Vionnet is sure that Gostrey will supply Strether with the necessary details. It becomes clear that Madame de Vionnet is Chad's "virtuous attachment" - not her daughter. After seeing Madame de Vionnet, Strether talks to Little Bilham and says that he is "sorry for" Chad and Madame de Vionnet because there is nothing that he can do for them. Madame de Vionnet is already married and so it is too late for Chad to do anything. When Bilham insists "better late than never," Strether replies "better early than late!" Section III: Strether reunites with Miss Gostrey, though he does not see Chad for the rest of his time at the party. Gostrey is willing to help Strether but she is not willing to help Madame de Vionnet at all. She will not go into details regarding their history, but it is clear that Gostrey does not like Madame de Vionnet very much. If Madame de Vionnet insists upon seeing Gostrey, she will be unsuccessful - for Gostrey will make sure not to be home. Madame de Vionnet's daughter is a very well educated and polite young woman, but Gostrey declines any intervention on the daughter's behalf. Gostrey tries to explain to Strether that Madame de Vionnet might very well be in love with Chad and not feel slightly compromised in fixing a marriage between Chad and her daughter. Strether asks Chad whether he is engaged to Madame de Vionnet's daughter, and Chad insists that he is not. Simply, he feels "indebted" to Madame de Vionnet and leaving her is awkward. Chad wants Strether to see Madame de Vionnet and perhaps assist her. Strether's primary fear is that Madame de Vionnet will charm him and he will then feel compelled to help her: something that he knows he cannot do. Chad insists that Madame de Vionnet has lived a good life and it is decided that Strether will see her that very evening. AnalysisGloriani is a major character in Section I, but he does not appear elsewhere in the novel. In fact, Gloriani is a character from James' novel Roderick Hudson. Gloriani is an artist, a collector of art, and a collector of persons as well. Gostrey's idea of "types" fits well with Gloriani's efforts to assemble the perfect group of invitees for his garden party. Gloriani's garden party is a symbolic garden. We can recall the Garden of Eden, and view Gloriani's party as an effort to recreate a perfect order. At the same time, a garden is natural; Gloriani's efforts are mechanical and not without effort. The garden is decorated with people and sculptures, pressing the idea that there is a similarity between the two. Specifically, Gloriani gardens by sculpting people into types. This is the same thing that the "virtuous attachment" has done with Chad. Naturally, Chad has grown out of his youth. But in a non-organic sense, Madame de Vionnet has sculpted Chad's persona into a "type" to her liking. Book Sixth foreshadows some of the gloom that Strether will face in Volume II. He feels inadequate when compared to Waymarsh, who is described as being "Michelangelesque." Especially in conversation with Bilham, Strether feels a distinct lack of "glory." Strether sees more "glory" than is actually present. He hears the polite social flattery addressed to others, and he interprets this "glory" as objective fact. Ironically, this fascination with glory prevents Strether from fulfilling his duty and achieving a glory of his own. Book Sixth: Section I: At 5:30, Chad Newsome brings Strether to Madame de Vionnet's apartment and then leaves him. Madame de Vionnet enters her drawing-room and tries her best to help Strether to relax. She is also nervous, realizing that she must make a good impression. Strether simply agrees to listen to Madame de Vionnet, as he as promised as much to Chad. Distressed, Madame de Vionnet asks Strether for assistance, but he insists that he is in Paris to help Mrs. Newsome. De Vionnet hopes that Strether might sympathize with her and perhaps tell Mrs. Newsome the truth, as apparent: that Madame de Vionnet is wonderful and that Chad is wonderfully improved. Madame de Vionnet does not have a plan for her own rescue. She wants to sustain a relationship of some form with Chad. The prospect of Chad marrying either Madame de Vionnet or her daughter is doubtful. Still, Madame de Vionnet hopes that Strether might hit upon some remedy. She reassures him of her confidence in her ability, but the only promise that Madame can wring form Lambert is: "I'll save you if I can." Section II: Chad wants Strether to meet Jeanne, presumably to compare her to Mamie. Strether has a conversation with Jeanne in Chad's petit-salon (drawing room). Jeanne's noble upbringing bears her through, and she displays a combination of cosmopolitan vocabulary and demure charm. Strether thinks she is rather perfect. Because Strether's opinion seems critical, Chad views it as essential that all make an effort to please Strether. For her part, Miss Barrace is not worried. She is convinced everything will work out. Strether reminds himself that Madame de Vionnet is married to a Count. Though the Count is a "wretch" (but also "charming"), divorce is highly unlikely. From Chad's viewpoint, an unmarried relationship is unsustainable. Looking around the room, Strether sees love, romance, and even flirtation. Miss Barrace seems to have developed an interest in Waymarsh - one he makes no effort to rebuff. Strether cannot help falling into introspection, realizing that he does not have "a life of [his] own." Section III: Madame de Vionnet spends more time with Lambert Strether, hoping to convey the message: "You see how I'm fixed." Strether cannot help but worry for Madame de Vionnet. He worries for himself when Maria Gostrey leaves Paris to visit an ailing friend in the south of France. Strether encourages Madame de Vionnet to put away any attempt to fix Jeanne and Chad into a marriage, for they are not in love. Later, Bilham tells Strether that Chad is very interested in Jeanne's future and that they are very close friends, despite the lack of romantic interest on either side. It also seems clear that Chad's interest in a relationship with Madame de Vionnet is diminishing. Indeed, Bilham is confident that Chad thinks it best to enter the business back at home in Woollett. Chad looks forward to a marriage but there is no possibility of this with the de Vionnets. Ironically, Strether seems displeased that Chad has finally come around. Analysis: The theme of strategy is developed in the conclusion of Volume I. Strether has gained strategic influence with the revelation of Madame de Vionnet's vulnerability. The question remains as to whether Strether will move wisely. To the extent that Strether willingly compromises his position and assists Madame de Vionnet, he is sure to fail. The theme of 'types' and aesthetic order appears again with Madame de Vionnet's "little museum." In Book Fifth, we learned that Madame de Vionnet was a "collector." Her hospitality towards Strether, like much of the hospitality displayed in the novel, is a strategic move. In her vulnerability, de Vionnet asserts her social superiority and sense of taste. If Madame de Vionnet can impress Strether, she can convince him that her position is not without merit. Ultimately, most of the consequences hinge on the communication between Strether and Mrs. Newsome. Strether plays a Messianic role in trying to "save" Chad and Madame de Vionnet, but ultimately, Strether has no more power than Mrs. Newsome is willing to give him. Strether moves without clarity and his intentions are not precisely defined. The recollection of Mrs. Newsome is a reminder that Strether is jeopardizing his life and his financial stakes back at home, in Woollett. Paris may be romantic, brilliant, and antique - but it is impermanent and temporary. Chad and Strether begin to grow further apart in terms of their modes of thinking. Indeed, Strether will lose his strategic position and Chad will use Strether to achieve his own ends. Chad looks at his life in a rational manner and he is less prone to Strether's romanticism. Chad is interested in marriage and in pursuing business. Though he cares for Madame de Vionnet, Chad is unwilling to neglect the fact that there is no chance of a marriage. Chad has hoped that Madame de Vionnet would sufficiently charm Strether and delay the inevitable. But even when Strether decides to support and assist Madame de Vionnet, it does not necessarily follow that Chad will reject the inevitable and pursue an impractical ambition to its end. Volume II focuses on Strether's entanglement, his difficulty and failure in trying to secure Chad, save Madame de Vionnet, and please Mrs. Newsome.
Summary and Analysis of Volume II, Books 7-8
Volume II: Book Seventh: Section I: Miss Gostrey is still gone, and Strether is beginning to flounder without her. Walking through Paris, Strether decides to visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame. He is very surprised when he sees Madame de Vionnet is there as well. Both are seeking "help, strength, peace, a sublime support" and they begin to develop a friendship, or at least, a mutual understanding. Strether sees his situation as being so complicated that he is almost fated to doom. Still, Strether feels sorry for Madame de Vionnet and agrees that he will do what he can to save her. Strether tells Madame de Vionnet that he will write to Mrs. Newsome, "letting her know that I consider you [Madame de Vionnet] worth saving." Madame de Vionnet is very grateful and she hopes for the best. Section II: Strether has received a telegram from Mrs. Newsome and he is not at all pleased. He is waiting to speak to Chad, and in his anxiety, Strether shreds the telegram. Mrs. Newsome is uninterested in compromising her position. In fact, she has given Strether an ultimatum: if he cannot bring Chad with him, Strether is to leave Chad in Europe and return home alone. While Chad sees that he must now leave, Strether is reluctant to leave. With victory in his hand, Strether fails to bring Chad along with him. Chad appears ready to come home, but Strether is charmed by Paris and charmed by Madame de Vionnet. He tells Chad to delay and stay in Paris a little longer. Chad seems surprised by Strether's decision, but as it is agreeable to his original position, Chad does not object too strenuously. Section III: Miss Gostrey is surprised when she learns that Strether has stopped Chad from returning home. Waymarsh is also concerned and he morally disapproves of what Strether has done. Indeed, Waymarsh may have been communicating with Mrs. Newsome in order to hurry the mission along and also protect Strether. It seems that Strether intends to stay a little longer, just for the fun of it. At the same time, Strether realizes that he is behaving somewhat irrationally, that there will be some sort of "smash" at the end of things. At the end of Book Seventh, it becomes clear that Mrs. Newsome is sending more ambassadors to the scene. Chad's sister, Sarah Pocock, will be arriving soon, along with her husband, Jim, and Jim's sister, Mamie. AnalysisVolume II opens on a romantic note, but Sections II and III make it clear that Strether has failed. Section I offers religious imagery as a contrast to the ineffective and half-formed relief that Strether offers Madame de Vionnet. In a sense, Madame de Vionnet's reliance upon Strether alone is evidence of her actual weakness. Already, we find that Mrs. Newsome has replaced Strether with more abler ambassadors, and even Waymarsh has been looking out for Mrs. Newsome's interests. Though she is in America, "the ghost of the lady of Woollett [was] more importunate than any other presence." Mrs. Newsome is ghost-like in her material absence, but in terms of power, she is felt. Newsome has sent her daughter to accomplish what Strether has not. In Book First, Maria Gostrey was described as a maternal figure akin to the Virgin Mary. In the absence of this figure, Strether has gone to the Cathedral of Notre Dame. What Strether is seeking is the assistance and mothering of a dominant female character (like Gostrey). Instead, Strether finds himself assisting Madame de Vionnet - who is dominant and powerful, but in need of rescue, nonetheless. Her hold on Chad has been temporary, for Chad now appears ready to leave de Vionnet. The Countess hopes that she can hold onto either Chad or Strether as a means of prolonging the status quo. By the end of Book Seventh, Strether is unable to help anybody except perhaps himself. He has been replaced in his ambassadorial role. And Chad's new found common-sense prevents the young man from accepting Strether's idealized Paris. Already, Chad seems restless and increasingly bored. He stays with Madame de Vionnet out of obligation. Ultimately, we might expect this to be the conclusive development of the theme of youth and age. Chad has his life ahead of him and unwilling to submit himself to an impossible arrangement. Strether and de Vionnet have already lived through many experiences. They have less to lose than Chad, because they have already had much. In a surprising twist on the theme, we find the young man emerging as the conservative voice. With his future at stake, he has more to lose than either de Vionnet or Strether. The narrative structure of the novel certainly creates a context for dramatic irony. Indeed, there is much that we cannot help but know, though it is obscured from Strether. The very fact of the title implies - from the very beginning of our reading - that Strether will not be the only ambassador. Second, the fact that we are only now in the beginning of Volume II forces us to reject Strether's passive anticipation of a swift and easy ending. Strether does not want to fulfill his duty. Having complicated the issue and compromised himself, he seeks justice and closure. He tells Madame de Vionnet: "my work, you see, is really done, and my reasons for staying on even another day are none of the best. Chad's in possession of our case and professes to do it full justice. What remains is with himself." Where Strether was once playing the role of a messiah, he has now turned over the reins. The imagery has changed from religious to legal. Maria Gostrey has left, and Waymarsh, a lawyer, now occupies a strategic role. Indeed, it is worth recalling that Waymarsh's "moral rage" has already earned him a comparison to "the old Hebrew prophet" Moses, earlier in the novel. Waymarsh is less of a lawyer and more of a law-giver. Though he remains on the periphery, he assumes enough authority to merit the description "Michelangelesque," which obliquely references both the Sistine Chapel's depictions of judgment as well as Michelangelo's towering sculpture of Moses. Previously we have seen motifs of Messianic salvation, refuge and intercession on the part of a maternal role. Now there is the idea of justice as relief, and a setting aside of the personal in favor of the religious. In Volume II, the idea of justice as "relief" develops into a major theme. Book Eighth: Section I: Strether does not confront Waymarsh on the issue of whether Waymarsh has been communicating with Mrs. Newsome. He begins to worry that the Pococks will arrive and "dismiss him" and that he will suffer the "instant forfeiture of everything." Strether asks Waymarsh for his help, though it is unclear what sort of help Strether seeks. Chad is less amused than usual, at the prospect of his sister's arrival. Miss Barrace worries that Sarah will be unduly harsh, but Strether insists that Sarah Pocock is "wonderful." Section II: They arrive as a company of four: Sarah, Mamie, Jim, and the maid. Strether is worried but when he sees Sarah's face he is instantly comforted. Sarah is not visibly displeased. She is "gracious" and so, Strether may conclude that Mrs. Newsome has forgiven him. Sarah appears as an affable, intense, determined and forceful character. Mamie is described as being the quintessential beautiful American girl. Strether is confident that they will be successful, for they look like the perfect team. Strether is surprised that the Pococks do not remark on Chad's difference, his visible change for the better. Jim takes in the scene and jokes to Strether that if he were in Chad's shoes, he wouldn't give up Paris to work in advertising. Section III: Retreating to her salon, Sarah has a discussion with Madame de Vionnet. Waymarsh and Strether are present as well. Throughout the exchange, Sarah proves herself to be a formidable "ambassador" and she remains unwilling to make a single concession. Both women use polite language though it is clear that they are at battle. Strether seems somewhat excessively supportive of Madame de Vionnet, and when Waymarsh casually gives the Countess a compliment, Sarah feels isolated. Strether then steps in to balance the conversation. His ambivalence prevents the issue from coming to closure. Madame de Vionnet hopes to meet Mamie, and she would like for Sarah to meet Jeanne. Sarah makes no real commitment. At the end of the Section, Madame de Vionnet gives a veiled threat, assuring Sarah that she (the Countess) will not be leaving Paris so long as the Pococks are in the city. Analysis: Sarah Pocock is more masterful in strategy than Strether is. One of Strether's most lucid observations of reality comes in Section I when he confesses: "I feel like the outgoing ambassadorÖdoing honour to his appointed successor." Book Eighth temporarily suspends the prospects of Strether's doom. Though Strether fears his fate, Sarah has arrived gracious and forgiving. Though Strether has been largely dismissed from his duties as an "ambassador," it is expected that he will remain loyal to Mrs. Newsome and the Pococks, in spirit. When Strether's failing is exposed as a compromise of his intention (as opposed to merely his ability), Sarah Pocock will be less gracious. The Pococks bring more of a contrast to Strether's romanticized Paris. Chad's friends instructed Strether to look for the "improvement" in Chad; seeing a change in Chad, Strether interpreted this change as improvement. The Pococks do not view Paris and its denizens in the same manner that Strether has. Indeed, Sarah is rather unflappable when she is faced with the prospect of debating with a Countess. Furthermore, Sarah represents a position of uncompromising strength; behind Sarah Pocock, Mrs. Newsome stands. And 1 Mrs. Newsome has the power of 50 Sarah Pococks, we are told. Henry James' earlier novella, Daisy Miller, looks at the idea of American youth being spoiled by the wordly and less savory aspects of European culture. In a sense, Sarah Pocock does well to protect Mamie from Madame de Vionnet and her Parisian society, a society that has already altered the stock of young Americans. When Sarah states "I know Paris," her understatement is that Paris is a sham glory. Indeed, the Pococks are in the advertising business. We would expect them to separate the romanticized ideal from the actual condition. Sarah performs better than Strether did because she is unwilling to perform any additional or auxiliary roles. She refuses to interact with the Parisian "society" according to their customs. She will not allow herself to be charmed. In terms of plot then, Sarah's arrival insures that Chad will leave Paris. Sarah also provides a moral and social critique of Strether's actions, implying that he will suffer punishment if he continues on his course.
Summary and Analysis of Volume II, Books 9-10
Book Ninth: Section I: Strether talks to Madame de Vionnet and explains that the Pococks are firm in their position. Furthermore, they see no improvement in Chad. Even Chad has largely adopted their argument, though Strether assures de Vionnet that he is committed to helping her. He believes that the Pococks see the improvement in Chad but do not want to admit it. With Chad's assistance, Madame de Vionnet has arranged a marriage for Jeanne. This catches Strether by surprise, and Madame de Vionnet worries that Strether sees her as "awful." Section II: Deliberately, Sarah has been non-communicative with Strether and he is impressed by her solidity. Strether visits Gostrey and describes "Woollett, Milrose and their products" as "abysmal." Strether rambles in the conversation, suggesting that Paris might change Sarah. Perhaps, Sarah might even fall in love with Waymarsh. Gostrey tells Strether that Jeanne de Vionnet will marry Monsieur de Montbron, and Strether replies that he has already learned of the engagement. Strether cannot help but feel doomed. With Sarah on the scene, it will not be possible for him to secure Madame de Vionnet's happiness. Strether also believes that Chad will become a man like Jim Pocock if he returns to Woollett. Section III: Strether visits Sarah's room and notices that there are letters from Mrs. Newsome. He sees that there is somebody on the balcony and when he approaches, Strether startles Mamie. Mamie is waiting for Bilham, and she is both startled and disappointed to see that it is Strether who has arrived. Strether takes some comfort in seeing Mamie, though he is worried that Paris might ruin her. Still, Strether seizes upon the prospect of romance between Mamie and Bilham as a glint of hope, a new fact that might help conjure up the heretofore elusive outcome that he hopes for. AnalysisOne of the most poignant of the images presented in Book Ninth, is that of the sinking boat. Strether has committed himself to Madame de Vionnet and as a result he owns shares in her sunken fortune. Several times in Book Ninth, Strether seeks his position as "sunk." In one passage, he fully imagines the boat and the suspense of waiting for disaster: "what he had really most been conscious of for many hours together was the movement of the vessel itself. They [Strether and Madame de Vionnet] were in it together." In terms of narrative structure, Book Ninth marks a shift from the earlier chapters. Throughout the novel, there has been a narrative focus on Strether's consciousness, on what he is thinking. Conversations have played a limited role in supplying information. The conversations have offered details and "facts," but the combination of dishonesty and charades limited the value of the Parisian party talk. The Pococks have injected a note of seriousness into this Society. A narrative consequence is that the conversations are now more meaningful and revealing of information. Because the narrator does not reveal Sarah Pocock's thoughts, the conversations become all the more important, for Sarah is clearly the most powerful player in the "game." Strether whines to Madame de Vionnet about "how much I have to judge." The irony is that Strether is no longer employed as 'ambassador;' he does not need to judge anything. Furthermore, he has judged improperly. He perceives that he has a task, but he does not understand what he is to do. Gostrey can only help Strether so much. If Strether gives Gostrey incorrect information, she cannot properly draw inferences. Ultimately, Strether has misread the scene. He accepts the idea that the relationship between Chad and Madame de Vionnet "is too special and has gone too far," concluding that Chad sees in Madame de Vionnet, "a person he can never hope, short of a catastrophe, to marry." Chad takes measures to insure that he will not suffer a catastrophe. Indeed, the Americans are already beginning their retreat from the scene. Strether ought to interpret Chad's withdrawal as a submission to the inevitable. Unlike Strether, Chad prefers to accept the inevitable early on. Logically, it makes sense for him to choose the avenue where grace is offered. Strether declines the 'gracious' offers of the Newsome-Pocock family. In a sense, he is waiting to see what the inevitable will feel like. Strether's actions make little sense, on surface. In a subtle sense, Strether is a man who has been deprived of adventure. He states later that he simply wants to find out whether he can survive the "smash" which is inevitable, should he remain in the wrong. Strether sees that he is "drowning" and is passive, desiring to know whether he is strong enough to let himself sink. The paradox is that Strether's suffering is unnecessary and of no value. He will not be medaled nor rewarded for staying true to his failed romantic ideal. Book Tenth: Section I: Chad has thrown a party and invited between fifteen and twenty people. At the party, Strether has a conversation with Bilham. Strether sees that Chad is presenting the whole circle of his society to Sarah in the hopes that Sarah will be charmed. Sarah is stiffening, however, and she will not endanger her mission. When Strether asks Sarah if she sees her brother's improvement, Sarah's reply suggests that if Chad has improved, he should bring his improvements to Woollett. The party has done nothing to budge Sarah's fixed position. Section II: Strether senses that the end of the drama has drawn near. Waymarsh gives him the message that he is to see Sarah. It seems that the Pococks will soon be leaving Paris. Waymarsh is also going to be leaving. Strether looks at Waymarsh and sees that his friend is judgmental, possessing a "sacred rage." Waymarsh intends to help Strether, however. He explains that Sarah is "coming to be very kind to [Strether]." Waymarsh urges Strether not to be an idiot, bluntly saying "don't do anything you'll be sorry for." Section III: When Strether sees Sarah, he plays the role of a fool. Sarah has taken great efforts to smooth the way, and she tells Strether that Chad agrees to leave Paris if Strether will give him the word. Chad has submitted himself to Strether's decision. Sarah is humiliated by Strether's refusal to do this. She does not see the charm of Paris and she describes Chad's "fortunate" development as "hideous." Strether stands in his position and brings doom upon himself. Analysis: Book Tenth brings the novel to climax: Strether is offered a final opportunity to repair his position and he rejects it. Strether's understanding of strategy is so shallow that he does not realize what has actually occurred. Chad has arranged a marriage for Madame de Vionnet's daughter - replaying his debt to her and making it easier for him to leave. Though he is prepared to leave, Chad has pretended that he will only leave if Strether convinces him: allowing Strether the opportunity of success. Waymarsh and Sarah have all taken great efforts to "smooth" things so that this orchestrated act can occur. Mrs. Newsome has given an offer of forgiveness, but Strether has rejected everything. By the end of Book Tenth, Strether is essentially alone. Even Madame de Vionnet is not so deluded as to believe that there is a possibility of marrying Chad. Waymarsh has also stated that he believes Sarah Pocock "to be acting in conformity with things that have [his] highest respect." Certainly, this is a condemnation of Strether's actions of willful disobedience. In the end, Strether has tried to force the idea of Paris on Chad, even when Chad is no longer interested in the bohemian lifestyle. If Strether has any hope, it is that he has actually saved Chad in some way. Strether does not want to be responsible for Chad's inevitably sad and boring life in America. But at the same time, Strether's petition for Chad to remain in Paris is no more than symbolic, because Strether does not have the power to convince Chad to stay.
Summary and Analysis of Volume II, Books 11-12
Book Eleventh: Section I: Lambert Strether reminisces about the early days of his visit, as he walks down the Boulevard Malesherbes. Chad is distressed, meanwhile. In conversation, it is made clear to Strether that Sarah remains "crystalline" and obstinate in her position. Still, Strether admits that he "felt no remorse." Chad is saddened by the fact that Strether stands to lose a great deal. Section II: Strether tells Maria Gostrey that the Pococks have left Paris and that Chad will soon be leaving as well. Gostrey appreciates the fact that Madame de Vionnet did not make an attempt to separate Gostrey from Strether, although it is not clear precisely how de Vionnet might have done this. Of course, Maria's primary concern is for Strether's welfare. There does not seem to be the option of a "last mercy," now that Strether has offended Sarah Pocock and obstinately rejected Mrs. Newsome's generous offer. Strether says that he will have the comfort of self-knowledge, but Gostrey is not convinced that this is a true "comfort." Gostrey argues that, if anything, Strether has "treasures of imagination." Indeed, Strether has imagined beautiful details more than he has analyzed the actual facts. Section III: Strether seems to have absorbed the full consequences of his actions. For comfort, Strether decides to make a day-trip into the banlieue (the countryside of the surrounding suburban regions). Strether takes his stroll alone and thinks to himself. He assumes that he is isolated but in fact, there is a boat on the nearby river. A lady and gentleman are present on the boat. Section IV: Much to his surprise and embarrassment, Strether realizes that Chad is the oarsman and he is sharing company with Madame de Vionnet. It is awkward because Strether does not want to be recognized - though Chad soon apprehends him. All three are somewhat embarrassed though Strether feels far more mortified. At this point, Strether feels that he finally "hits bottom." Strether cannot determined whether this accidental meeting has been somehow orchestrated or contrived. He does feel that he has stumbled upon a performance and in a general sense, Strether feels "used" by Chad. AnalysisIn Book Eleventh, we see that the turn of events has some effect on Strether's mental composure. Earlier in the novel, Strether walked down Boulevard Malesherbes, searching for Chad and wondering whether he would recognize Chad when he saw him. Strether has enjoyed more than a few walks through Paris' more fashionable quarters and his walks have brought recollections of a previous visit to Paris. In Book Eleventh, Strether's walk does not bring relief: escape from thinking about his present situation. Indeed, the "idyllic retreat" of the suburbs becomes a cruel irony when Strether discovers Chad and Madame de Vionnet. Here the boat imagery has been altered. After his experience in the Notre Dame cathedral, Strether sees himself sharing a boat with Madame de Vionnet. While there were no hints of romance, there was the idea that Strether willingly bound his fate to de Vionnet's. The boating scene suggests that in spite of the evitable separation, de Vionnet was by no means already separated from Chad. Her desperation was simply a mask worn as a means of buying time. The "performance" suggests the extent of the dishonesty displayed in the character's strategies. Strether does not believe that Chad and de Vionnet have deliberately arrived on scene as a means of creating a performance for Strether (who they supposedly knew was taking a day-trip). However, it does seem reasonable to assume that Chad and de Vionnet, seeing Strether, performed in the manner most profitable to their interests. Strether has been surprised by the "vision." This time, Strether was not able to pre-determine a romanticized vista. Indeed, some of the romanticized notions are held no longer, rejected, as the visual medium becomes more clear (as a form) to Strether. He might have learned this much from the Newsomes' advertising business. In this scene, an unpleasant shock has been smoothed over. Strether cannot help but think that a similar sort of smoothing over must have occurred throughout his involvement with Chad and Chad's friends. Perhaps Strether has been "used." Certainly, Sarah Pocock's "crystalline" aspect indicates that she has not been used. By remaining firm, Sarah is able to achieve her desired ends. Chad and Madame de Vionnet never really reveal their truly desired ends. They strategically engage Strether, and we cannot assume that both have represented themselves truthfully. Strether, on the other hand, had vaguely defined ends. Because Strether had not decided upon an argument, arguments were drawn for him. Gostrey tells the doomed man that his 'treasure of imagination' are valuable. Strether has done plenty of imagining instead of investigating and analyzing. Book Twelfth: Section I: At this point, Strether wonders precisely what will happen at the end, how the Newsomes will separate with him. Strether wants to see Maria Gostrey, and he is glad that Gostrey is still there to help him sort through the details. As it turns out htough, Strether does not go to see Gostrey right away. Thinking about Paris, Strether is somewhat shocked at the "ugliness" and the stale aspect of the city. Certainly, these details had been present all along. Strether cannot help but feel a little disappointed in himself. Section II: Strether intends to see Maria Gostrey, but he sees Madame de Vionnet first. De Vionnet is worried about how Strether must see her now. She fears that she has disgusted Strether. At the same time, Strether realizes with certainty that he "will lose" everything. De Vionnet cannot help but feel guilty for having led Strether to damage his prospects in such a permanent way. Strether does not seem to hold any grudges against de Vionnet, accepting full responsibility for his actions. At the same time, there is very little good will remaining between the two. Section III: Strether waits to hear from Chad Newsome, but it seems that he never will. Though he expected some sort of finality, Strether is somewhat dismayed to realize that he has "been chucked" in such a manner - without Chad giving a formal goodbye. Strether goes to see Gostrey and he learns that Madame de Vionnet had visited. Several times, de Vionnet visited Gostrey but Gostrey would not receive her. This final time, however, Maria Gostrey was willing to host her old acquaintance. De Vionnet had presumed that Chad left Paris with Strether; apparently, Chad had not bid farewell to de Vionnet either. Gostrey tries to get a sense of what Strether is thinking. It is clear to her that Strether has perceived the "shock" of his separation from the Newsomes. What surprises Gostrey is that Strether has not realized his error and rushed to return to Mrs. Newsome. Gostrey wonders whether "she might interfere to her profit," and make a move to keep Strether's company indefinitely. This does not seem likely, though. Gostrey and Strether discuss Madame de Vionnet. De Vionnet is worried that Strether judges her and thinks that she is an immoral woman; she worries because she felt that she and Strether might have been friends had things not turned out so poorly. Gostrey makes a sympathetic remark and Strether asks her whether she was sympathizing with de Vionnet or with him. Gostrey replies "I'm sorry for us all." Section IV: Strether meets Chad to exchange goodbyes. Chad has been to London and he has surveyed the advertising business, which he will continue at home. In one sense, Strether realizes that Chad is too young to spend his life with Madame de Vionnet. If nothing else, his decision is a "rejection of the aged." Strether encourages Chad not to "be a brute" and to be merciful in his treatment of Madame de Vionnet. He also adds that it would make sense for Chad to get as much "improvement" from de Vionnet as he can. Section V: In the final section of the novel, Strether has not lost his characteristic "restlessness." In his discussion with Maria Gostrey, the final details of the novel are disclosed. It is likely that Mamie and Chad will be wed at some point in the future, and Chad will grow to become a great "man of business." In a sense, Chad's return home is not surprising because he is a man who has been "formed to please" the women around him. Ultimately, Chad's mother has her way. Strether is sure that his relationship with Mrs. Newsome - whatever it was - is certainly over. Gostrey asks Strether what prospects he has in Woollett, and Strether replies that he is going "home to infamy." Gostrey cannot help but propose that Strether remain with her. Strether's reply is that is only consolation and justification is to "not, out of the whole affair, to have got anything for myself." Gostrey essentially argues that Strether has some right (if not an obligation) to look after his own interests, especially as the drama involving the other characters has concluded. Strether retorts that Gostrey herself would want him to do right. He could not justify a decision to remain in Europe with her because that would pollute his romanticism with strategy. Gostrey cannot really resist Strether's argument that he has been selfless and pure up to this point. And so, the novel ends with Strether declining Gostrey's invitation and deciding to return to Woollett. Analysis: The novel's conclusion brings together the ideas of fate and strategy. The motifs have already been developed; here, we see the concluding aspects of "character development." Madame de Vionnet's strategy was ultimately unsuccessful and like Strether, she submits to fate. Strether negotiated and bargained without even having a strategy. If Strether thought that he would be spared from harm on account of his good intentions, he was mistaken. Fate has overruled the strategies of the players. As a result, the end of the novel is not very dramatic. We have expected this ending. Strether has tried to function in the role of a savior. He has arrived on the scene to "save" Chad Newsome, only to become entangled in trying to "save" Madame de Vionnet. Strether has failed on both counts: Chad has been saved by his sister, and Madame de Vionnet has not been saved by anybody. Strether has celebrated the idea of glory, and he has tried to become glorious by redefining his mission to include Madame de Vionnet. Strether had the opportunity to be "rescued" by Sarah Pocock, but having rejected this offer, Strether has no hope of "glory." He is innocent and he argues that he has not gotten anything for himself. But because Strether has not strategized, he loses. James' The Ambassadors is not a novel in which the sacrificial turn out to be the winners in the end. Gostrey has the opportunity to keep Strether in her company and perhaps start a romantic relationship with him, but she follows a similar course of self-denial. Both characters are together at the end of the novel, and with no other characters on scene, Gostrey and Strether decide to separate. They are bound by their own ideals - not by the actions of the other characters. Both Strether and Gostrey try to keep the ideal of purity in mind. Throughout the novel, Gostrey and Strether have thought in terms of "types" and universal moral claims. The other characters have focused on their private and individual concerns. At the beginning of Book Twelfth, Strether appears in danger of losing his idealism. He has become intoxicated by the idea of Paris - at this point, Paris now seems ugly. The beauty that Strether had imagined, was no longer there. Of course, Paris hadn't changed. Strether changed. Strether once glamorized Madame de Vionnet, but at the end of the novel de Vionnet does not appear so glamorous to Strether. She is in the same regrettable position that she has occupied throughout the novel - Strether seems to realize this only in the end. Like other works of Henry James - Daisy Miller, in particular, The Ambassadors continues the theme of Europe as a corrupted, corrupting force. Strether's realization that Paris is uglier and corrupt, immediately precedes his return to America. In a sense, small-town provincialism is the trade-off for purity and idealism. Strether is a complex character because his idealism is youthful and out of place within the context of Strether's life. Strether returns to Paris hoping to relive the experience of his happier younger years. Further, Strether plays the idealist hoping to rescue young Chad Newsome. Chad Newsome appears older physically and mentally as well. Ultimately, Chad's own business sense wins out over Strether's attempts to make the young man behave in a youthful, idealistic manner. In the end, there is much more to youth than idealism. Chad may be headed for a life as a man of business, but he is headed for a life. His termination of the relationship with Madame de Vionnet is nothing less than the "rejection" of the "aged." Gostrey, Strether and Madame de Vionnet all suffer the ends of relationships without having future prospects ahead of them. Finally, the character development of Book Twelfth allows us insight into James' critical views on characterization and development. Throughout the novel, Gostrey and Strether have discussed individuals in terms of "types." As types, individuals are readable, understandable, and not very surprising. What is surprising about the end of the novel is that Strether's information - the advice that he receives from Gostrey - goes unused. Strether has learned about "types," but he is the type to ignore what he has learned. Chad is a man who has been "formed to please" and in the end, he pleases his mother, Mrs. Newsome. The idea of "types" suggests that man has limited free will and that life is more determined by fate or predetermined. Strether is perhaps in a rut: for all of his knowledge he can't get himself out of the rut of his character. He is simply not a "type" cut out for strategy. Mrs. Newsome, on the other hand, is rather God-like: she keeps her distance from the human scene, she sends messengers - her prophets and children to rescue her children and bring them back home, and in the end, she gets what she wants, as it was written. There is a role reversal in the "God-head" being female (Mrs. Newsome) and the successful savior (Sarah Pocock) being the daughter, as opposed to the son. At the same time, the absence of sacrifice on Sarah's part makes this scheme all the less Christian. James' allusions are explicit throughout the novel, but he makes it clear that this is not the scene for the passion of spilled blood. Strether's task - the task he failed - was unbearably simple. Strether's inability to rescue Chad for America or rescue Chad for Paris fully explains why Strether has been unable to rescue himself from failure - whether in America or in Paris.
ClassicNote on The Ambassadors
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