Contrarianism
The prevailing theme which carries throughout the text and can be applied to a number of different topics expressed in myriad ways is a philosophical contrarianism. Webster’s default perspective on just about every subject is the antithesis of the conventions of the Victorian era. This alternative mode of thinking is applied to everything from re-interpreting the meaning of fables to the recognition that Alice in Wonderland’s commercial success identifies it not as a bestselling children’s book, but one read almost exclusively by adults. And, of course, there is the fact that she identifies conceit as a possible virtue and questions how virtue can be its own reward.
Metaphorizing
A keynote thematic imprint of the Webster’s essays is that they tend to start with a focus on something on a literal level and then expand outward into the sphere of symbol so that they end up becoming a metaphor for something bigger and sometimes completely different. For instance, “Champagne” starts out completely as one might expect with a description of purity, cheapness, lightness and exhilarating elements of the grape-based beverage. By the end, however, champagne has been transformed into a metaphor for literature which figuratively manifests those same attributes. The focus on “Keys” expands outward from the ways that people treat actual keys to how they treat keys capable of figuratively opening and closing figurative locks.
Irony
Webster’s passion for the contrarian viewpoint is inextricably linked to her profound appreciation for irony. The irony kicks off with the title; that Webster was oblivious to the tonal disconnect between the content and the title which seems more appropriate to a flimsy etiquette book is beyond the point of contention. From the title of the book the irony also extends to individual essays. “The Depravity of English Ladies” is perhaps the best example since it takes the concept of a sincere viewpoint held by some and twists it into an ironic club with which to beat those people over the head. The single greatest display of Webster’s mastery across the fullness of an essay’s content, however, is probably “Virtue is its Own Reward” in which she uses irony to reveal that in reality, those acting the most virtuous usually clamor loudest for recognition and recompense.
