aClara represents the failed transgression of a dutiful daughter and sister. When we are firstintroduced to Clara Talboys at her fathers estate, Squire Talboys, she is employed in needlework, anexclusive activity belonging to womans domain. As expected, Clara does not utter one word whileRobert is addressing them about Georges disappearance; she is voiceless. When she makes one moveto exert herself and stands up, her father, Harcourt Talboys, exercises his control over her andcommands, Sit down, Clara... and keep your cotton in your workbox (Braddon 189). The tiniest showof movement, that of standing up and having the cotton roll out of her workbox, is seen as transgressivebecause it is her duty to remain perfectly quiet (Braddon 191) and seated, unless asked to dootherwise. No description is given of Claras physical or psychological characteristics. All that is knownat first is the narrators depiction of her demeanor. He says, The girl who had been addressed as Clarasat with her work primly folded upon her lap, and her hands lying clasped together on her work, andnever stirred when Robert spoke of his friends death (Braddon 191). Emphasis is placed on the factthat Clara does not lift her head, but keeps it bowed down. She embodies a passivity with regards to Mr.Harcourt Talboys, and, in his presence, is subjugated to her fathers will. 2.1 Possible TransgressionAs soon as Clara is away from her fathers presence and surveillance, she exhibits a rush ofmovement. Robert is startled by the appearance of a woman running, almost flying (Braddon 197)toward his carriage. The lack of mobility and stoicism (Braddon 198) she endured while in the countryhouse is juxtaposed to the passionate energy of her manner (Braddon 203) she exhibits while outsidethe confines of the home. Outside the home, Clara is allowed some physical description and evensexualization, albeit as a resemblance to her brother, George. Robert contemplates: She was veryhand...
