Foil

Character Role Analysis

Isabella Thorpe to Catherine Morland

Isabella and Catherine have many things in common, but they diverge in a number of significant ways. The two are roughly the same age, both have older brothers who are also friends, and both really enjoy their Gothic novels. It quickly becomes apparent that Isabella is Catherine's polar opposite in a number of crucial areas, namely in terms of morals and behavior. Isabella frequently verbally agrees with Catherine, aligning their opinions and sentiments. But Isabella's actions and her coy throw-away lines make it clear that she is very different from Catherine. Isabella is ultimately shallow, selfish, and fickle, while Catherine is much more generous and kind. For all her profusions of friendship, Isabella is really concerned with money and personal gain, things that Catherine disavows. To read more about Isabella's foil status, check out Isabella's "Character Analysis."