While there are a few qualities necessitated by the phrase femme fatale, the term has provided a wide berth for interpretation, even before it was coined in the 1850s. The most important portion of the definition lies in the fact that femme fatales use their womanly wiles to disturb society and social norms and achieve their goals. In Henry James’ The Princess Casamassima, the titular character of the Princess and Millicent Henning promote a feminist reading of the text. They twist the narrative of sexualization and objectification in order to manipulate their male counterparts, subvert gender norms, and achieve their goals of social mobility. Some might condemn James’ representation of the femme fatale as an inherently sexual being, pointing to the fact that sexualization and objectification do not support feminist ideals. However, these women pave the way for a more feminist world through reinventing everyday life with their masterful manipulation to achieve the economic and social levels they desire. Both the Princess and Millicent turn an oppressive and objectifying society into a tool for their own benefit and represent the types of women who began to build modern-day feminism.

Mila would like to thank Dr. Andy Harper for his help in writing her paper. She would also like to thank Dr. Ruth Evans for nominating her for the symposium and helping her navigate the process.