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“‘When you’ve lived as long as I you’ll see that every human being has his shell and that you must take the shell into account’” (ln.1-2). This first line of this excerpt, from Henry James’s novel The Portrait of a Lady, accurately depicts the most valid point in the essay. Madame Merle believes that the metaphysical aspect of one’s life reflects their character. Madame Merle uses the example of how one presents themselves through the garments they wear, the environment they live in, and the possessions they keep. Madame Merle’s counterpart, Isabel Archer, believe she feels differently, denying her ability to express herself, in her possessions. Stating that she “‘think(s) the other way,’” Isabel attempts to refute Madame Merle’s credence, but actually she is supporting Madame Merle’s convict