I finished this story a few days ago, but I have not written in my blog because I have no idea what to say. This story has gotten me speechless. I truly find it hard to believe that Fantomina was written and published in the 18th century for it must have been more than a little shocking to readers. I have looked at countless articles on-line trying to understand what to say about Fantomina but I got nothing, just more questions than answers. I understand what happened in Fantomina, but I just don’t know why.
Why did she dress up as a prostitute (a career that I am sure is not appealing, no matter the time period or country), yet is stunned with the outcome? It seemed like she was so innocent she did not know what ladies of that profession did. Why did she dress as different women for a cad that did not deserve her love? She kept following him around like a little lost puppy and going back to him eagerly- but why? Was her self esteem so low that she needed the brute’s attention to feel loved and be happy?
Why is it that this Mr. Beauplaisir gets away free as a bird (what is the male term for “slut” anyway?), yet Fantomina is left in ruin with a daughter, then sent away? Not only does he get to sleep with 4 “different” women, but he selfishly grabs whatever he wants and throws it away when he tires of it. No one questions him and his wicked actions! Where are the justice seekers and screaming feminists? Fantomina herself should be the first in line to throw rocks at him (sharp ones). She doesn’t seem to have a major problem with the fact that her lover was cheating on her many times- with herself at that! It is almost like a natural occurrence for a man’s eyes to wander after a time. For Fantomina to dress up as different ladies just so the man she loves will not wander to another is truly a dismal time to live in. True, there are wandering eyes now in our time, but it is not expected and so easily cast aside.
This story frustrates me very much, for I don’t know what to make of it. Like I said, I am dumbfounded trying to wrap my mind around all the “whys” in the story. I mentally wanted to shake Fantomina and explain how she could do so much better than that womaniser. Then I wanted to kick that Mr. B. good for not appreciated what he had, or could have had with Fantomina. I guess for me, I am just really angry that Mr.B’s actions were probably not frowned upon by readers, while Fantomina was probably looked at harshly with disgust and revulsion. Why is it that he can do whatever he wants while still keeping his dignity, stature, and reputation, but she loses hers?….. Sigh, but that is just my bitter opinion.
