Via her portrayal of characters, Elizabeth Stuart Phelps exemplifies the notion of a flat character. “Her life had not been one to develop” indeed, as all aspects of the protagonist’s life undergoes little changes and remains pretty stagnant. Right from the very beginning of the story, Phelps preps the readers with a lengthy description of Asenath’s “sickly face” and physique, enabling one to foresee and expect the fact that there will be no happy ending for her- a number of unfortunate happenings are bound to take place. It is clearly a case whereby the outward description of one’s appearance directly mirrors the state of one’s life. Because Asenath is ugly, she does not receive a happy ending. Her relationship is filled with insecurities, and there’s this constant inferiority complex that she is un-deserving of Dick, who unlike her, is “handsome”.
“Pretty Del” also provides a clear illustration of a flat character, with a positive correlation between appearance and blessings. Because she is a beauty, Phelps presents her such that it seemed only natural that she possesses the good fortune to be rescued out from the ruins and fire. Her attractive features are like a triumph card that guarantees a good life. As readers, this clear cut manner in characterization eliminates any element of surprise, as one later finds out that Dick is attracted to her, such that the mere act of looking at her face makes it difficult for him to suppress his adoration.
The presentation of characters itself, thus reveals a great deal about the story.
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