Lady Dud Duffy Gordon's Identity

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The thesis of "The Mistress of Nothing" by Kate Pullinger illustrates that the journey to self-discovery and freedom is fraught with complexities, highlighting the intertwined struggles of power, race, and class, as exemplified by the experiences of Lady Duff Gordon and her maid Sally Naldrett in Egypt. Complexities of power dynamics- Lady Duff Gordon, a woman of privilege, holds authority over Sally, her maid. However, this power dynamic is not without its complexities. Despite her status, Lady Duff Gordon is confined by societal expectations and norms, as evidenced by her inability to fully embrace her desires and aspirations. In one instance, Sally reflects on their relationship, stating, "It is a strange thing, the power a mistress has over her maid... But …show more content…

Impact of racial struggle- Racial tensions further complicate the characters' quest for self-discovery and freedom. Sally, as a woman of African descent, faces discrimination and marginalization both within the household and in society at large. Despite her loyalty and dedication to Lady Duff Gordon, she is acutely aware of the limitations imposed upon her by her race. Reflecting on her identity, Sally muses, "I am neither English nor Egyptian, neither slave nor free." This poignant statement encapsulates the complexities of navigating racial identity in a world fraught with prejudice and oppression.Confronting racial prejudice prompts Sally to question her sense of belonging and self-worth and challenge these circumstances to find her place. The influence of class disparities- Class disparities serve as yet another obstacle in the protagonists' journey towards self-realization. Lady Duff Gordon, accustomed

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