How does Belinda perform her toilette with the help of her Sylphs?
The Rape of the Lock is a notable literary work by Alexander Pope. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Rape of the Lock.
Answer
How does Belinda perform her toilette with the help of her Sylphs?
Or, Describe Belinda’s toilette.
In “The Rape of the Lock” (1712), Belinda’s toilette is described as a holy ceremony. The poet Alexander Pope (1688-1744) uses rich language and funny images to show how much time Belinda gives to her beauty. She stands before her mirror like a priestess. Her dressing table becomes an altar. Everything she uses is full of fashion and pride.
Holy Like a Ritual: Belinda starts her day by standing before her dressing table. She wears a white robe and looks into the mirror. She sees a beautiful image and bows to it like a goddess. The narrator says,
“First, rob’d in White, the Nymph intent adores
With Head uncover’d, the cosmetic Pow’rs.
A heav’nly Image in the Glass appears.”
Her maid, Betty, stands beside her like a helper in prayer. Pope uses this religious picture to show how proud and serious rich girls are about their beauty.
Gifts from the World: On her table, there are many rich items. There are perfumes from Arabia and jewels from India. She has tortoise-shell combs and ivory combs. There are boxes full of powders, pins, and beauty patches. Even Bibles and love letters lie there. It is apparent in the following lines.
“Here files of pins extend their shining rows,
Puffs, Powders, Patches, Bibles, Billet-doux.”
Help from the Sylphs: While Belinda dresses, many Sylphs fly around her. These are small, magical spirits who guard her beauty. Some fix her hair, some fold her gown, and some help with her sleeves. Though her maid, Betty, helps her, people praise Betty more than the Sylphs who do the real work in secret.
In short, Belinda’s dressing time is full of pride and beauty. It looks like a mix of religion and fashion. The poet uses funny images to show how much rich girls care about looks.