Roman Fever Blog

In Edith Wharton’s Roman Fever, the two characters Mrs. Ansley and Mrs. Slade discuss the past, present, and future of Rome. In the short story, there are monuments mentioned that entail a significant influence on the times and cultures of Rome. Each character resembles a facet or characteristic of women of the times. Mrs. Slade, who is the widow of a rich lawyer, seems to be a strong, independent woman who is bored with every day pleasures in life. On the other hand, Mrs. Ansley, who is more complacent and subtle character, blends in with the expectations of a typical “woman” in society. Looking back on their childhood, these women remember being “sheltered” from the sociological influences of Rome. They point out that these impulses to go out and experience the town were centered on these great Roman monuments such as Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, and the Palace of the Caesars. Each one of these has a distinct purpose to further explain the relationship between past and future as an idealist.
The Palatine Hill is the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome. It is the focal point behind Rome’s great existence. The author mentions this monument because this is where Rome all started. If one is to fully understand and appreciate the magnificent buildings of Rome in the present time, one must pay homage to the initial location where the city was built.
The Roman Forum is also mentioned in the passage. The oldest and most vital structures of Rome are located inside the Forum such as the Regia and the Vestal Virgins. The forum served as the town square and a place that justice and faith could be exercised. This is important to Roman Fever because religion and law is very important to the people of Rome. These principles were used to build the very city.
The phrase “Memento Mori” is also used in the text. It means that no matter how rich or esteemed a person becomes, they must be reminded that they must die one day. A person must not put themselves above anyone else. This realist point of view resembles the work of Wharton in the time. She spoke of actual, tangible events that were dealt with on an everyday basis. Furthermore describing the concepts of realism, the character is shaped by society. Also realism is concerned with the common life of the middle and lower class. It speaks of daily struggles, problems, and concerns.
Wharton writes about the new generation missing the “Roman Fever”. This simply means that this new age is not embracing the beauty of the city that the older generation has. The younger children are flirting with boys and girls of the opposite sex while the two older women in the story are gazing at the ancient edifices of Rome and knitting. There is a distinct and ever-present cultural difference that must be noted. Wharton is highlighting this in Roman Fever, and something that was affecting not only Rome but other countries of the time.