Bunge attempts to identify positive outcomes of the dire consequences faced by Lady Eleanore. (courtesy of Twayne Publishers)

Lady Eleanore's confession and her harsh self-criticism also show that all human beings, no matter how alienating their social norms, retain consciences. One can remove a mantle of arrogance, but that means having the courage to accept and act on one's humane instincts even thought the world pushes one to violate them.