How does Carter create her characters?

Jean-Yves

The male characters throughout the story are far from fairy tale-esque.(?) The narrators father is non existent, her husband is without humanity and Jean-Yves is no exception; he is blind and lacks the overwhelming power possessed by the Marquis. Jean-Yves can be described as the typical portrayal of a person with a sensory impediment.  His outstanding hearing and his ability to tune pianos over compensate his lack of vision. Although his character plays a diminished role in the story, his actions contribute to the fairy-tale ending for the narrator.

Jean-Yves’ character provides a direct contrast between him and the Marquis. He is first introduced by Carter with much less importance than the marquis –‘he was a blacksmith’s son from the village across the causeway… All most satisfactory.’ Immediately it is obvious that the character is far from owning excessive wealth like the Marquis but has earned a living through piano tuning although he still manages to engage the narrator despite his social position. (Contrary to the Marquis as she recognized and married him for his wealth) Through Jean-Yves’ lack of opulence, it may be suggested that his lower social status than the Marquis and narrator enables him to not outrank the narrator.

Carter has portrayed Jean-Yves’ character as caring, considerate and interested in the narrators’ musical talent; unlike the Marquis. His tentative approach and his polite nature are noted by the narrator –‘He seemed to know that I had smiled… He had the most touchingly ingenuous smile.’ It is clear his nature affects the narrator as she comments on his physical appearance regardless of his disability. This is significant as the sole reason she married the marquis was for his wealth, whilst comparably, it is not until she converses with Jean-Yves that she realizes his true capabilities; disregarding his social position.

The narrator describes Jean-Yves as ‘lovely, blind humanity’. This juxtaposes the stereotypical ideal of the perfect man by Carter as his descriptions can be said to be more feminine than masculine. However, in the end, the marriage of Jean-Yves and the narrator means that due to his attentive, accommodating characteristics-‘no bride should suffer so much…’- can hold an equal, balanced marriage, unlike dominated relationship the narrator previously experienced.

In conclusion, Carter has created a character that initially can be perceived as minor and irrelevant. This can be disregarded once his physical shortfall and lack of wealth is overlooked by the narrator to become an opportune hero.