Volu m e II - Purdue University Calumet

Marian’s masculine and feminine characteristics suggest that she is the ultimate paradox: she possesses the
delicate body of a woman, but the intelligence and facial features of a man. This foreshadows that Marian
will occupy contradictory roles throughout the novel.
Collins’ characterization of Marian moves beyond stereotypes, and this makes Marian one of the
most realistic characters in the novel. She is not a stereotypically good woman or a stereotypically bad
woman; she exhibits a complex array of behaviors and characteristics. Marian’s transcendence of
stereotypes allows her to act both masculine and feminine; thus, Walter and Fosco treat her as their equal.
Richard Barickman, Susan MacDonald, and Myra Stark argue that Collins “refract[ed] the changing
conceptions of women’s roles that characterized Victorian England” (3). Barickman, MacDonald, and Stark
further argue that Collins represents stereotypical women in order to criticize Victorian society for using
stereotypes to categorize women (3). Marian’s superior intelligence suggests that women are men’s equals
and not their inferiors. Since the Victorians typically attributed intelligence to masculinity, Marian’s display
of intelligence demonstrates Collins’ progressive attitude concerning women’s capabilities. As the novel
progresses Walter relies on Marian’s advice and companionship, and he even confesses that he trusts her as
he trusts himself (533). When Walter receives Marian’s ambiguous note while awaiting trial in London he
quenches his anxiety and panic, and he decides to trust Marian’s judgment. He says,
I hardly knew to what forgetfulness of my obligations anxiety and alarm might not have
tempted me, but for the quieting influence of my faith in Marian. My absolute reliance on
her was the one earthly consideration which helped me to restrain myself, and gave me
courage to wait. (555)
Marian is much more than an insipid angel in the house; she is a strong and autonomous woman. Her
feminine power earns Walter’s respect and trust, and Marian, therefore, successfully navigates within the
masculine sphere and can talk to men as an equal. In addition to succeeding within the masculine sphere,
Marian also succeeds within the feminine sphere.
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