Essay Questions

Why did Ersilia try to kill herself?

The reason why the young woman tried to take her life is not clearly stated and at some point it is even implied that Ersilia herself does not know why she acted in such a way. Her suicide attempt can be seen as the result of the troubles she had suffered in months before her attempt. During that time, Ersilia lost her job, her reputation, someone she cared about most likely died and she was abandoned by everyone around her. It is possible that this succession of events pushed her to a mental breakdown which eventually lead to her suicide attempt. It is also possible that the suicide attempt was a cry for help. After all, the young woman tried to kill herself in a very public place, thus ensuring she will be seen and helped. Because of these reasons, it is hard to determine why Ersilia tried to take her own life.

Why did Ersilia refuse Franco when they are reunited?

It is possible that Ersilia was angered at Franco, the man who promised to marry her only to abandon her in the moment of her life when she was most vulnerable. It is also possible that Ersilia felt unworthy to become his bride, especially considering her past transgressions. In a society when a great importance was put on moral cleanliness, Ersilia was seen as someone who did not deserve a good future because she was no longer a virgin. It is possible that Ersilia saw herself in this way as well and thus she may have tried to protect Franco from ruining his reputation by marrying a questionable woman.

How did Ersilia managed to survive after she was sent back to Italy?

The answer to this question is implied in the first act and then in the second act Ersilia confesses to Grotti how she really managed to sustain herself. In order to provide for herself, Ersilia resorted to prostitution. She describes in the second scene her routine, that of putting on her best dress, putting on makeup and then going outside in hopes of catching someone's eye. After that, she would take the man back to her hotel room where she would have sex with him in exchange for money. By doing this, Ersilia survived in Italy after she was fired and when she had no source of income.