Symbols and Motifs in "The Duchess at Prayer"

Being well-read and well-educated on a plethora of different stories across multiple cultures, and being well-acquainted with art, gave Edith Wharton the tools to weave both implicit and explicit references into her own works. Her stories are often wrought with subtle nods to mythology, religion and art. Themes are explored through sophisticated use of representative symbols.

Whether or not the reader picks up on these intricacies seldom influences the superficial understanding of the short story; however, noticing and analyzing them can help deepen one’s comprehension and appreciation of the subject matter at hand. This is especially true when Wharton chooses a subtext-heavy and between-the-lines approach to storytelling.

In terms of "The Duchess at Prayer", Wharton uses these techniques to help to create and deepen certain atmospheres, to open up fields of association, and to explore underlying issues.

Through masterful use of location and setting, Wharton places her characters in front of a backdrop packed with meaning; the descriptions of the Duchess's beauty offer insight into her character as well as the treatment and objectification of women 'like her'; the statue can be seen as an exploration of the Duke's dominance and revenge as well as the end to the Duchess's bid for (sexual) freedom; mythological and religious references help to deepen and explore the characters' inner workings; escape and subsequent punishment describe a central motif that becomes apparent throughout.