Mr. Parvis (Afterward)

Parvis is Edward Boyne’s lawyer from Waukesha. He knew of Edward Boyne’s and Bob Elwell’s dispute but didn’t tell Mary Boyne about it until he met her in person, probably to protect himself (Wharton 365). In the last chapter of the story, he visits Mary at Lyng and tells her the truth. One might think that Parvis, with his cold and calculating behavior, could be a representation of the economy or the embodiment of business at the time. This is supported by the fact that he coldly says that what Ned did, was pure business and not necessarily wrong. Furthermore, Parvis also points out that Bob Elwell wasn’t smart enough, in complete disregard to Elwell’s family. However, the rather emotionless behavior of the lawyer is broken up as he notices Mary Boyne’s condition towards the end of the chapter. He shows concern and worry, which tells the reader that Parvis is not a perfect stand-in for the business practices at this time (Wharton 367-373).

Wharton, Edith. "Afterward". The Muse's Tragedy and Other Stories . Ed. Candace Waid. London: Penguin Books, 1992. 342-373. Print.