The Tragic Innocence of Henry James's Daisy Miller

The Perception of Innocence in Society

Throughout the story, innocence is explored through the character of Daisy Miller herself, the judgment of the expatriate society, and Winterbourne’s inability to fully understand her. The novel raises questions about how innocence is perceived and whether it can survive in a world governed by rigid social expectations.

Daisy's Embodiment of Innocence

From the beginning, Daisy Miller embodies innocence in multiple ways. She is young, spontaneous, and unburdened by the complex rules of European high society. Unlike the more refined and reserved women Winterbourne is accustomed to, Daisy speaks freely, enjoys the company of men without hesitation, and refuses to acknowledge the social restrictions imposed upon her. Her flirtation with Winterbourne in Vevey and later with Giovanelli in Rome is not necessarily a sign of moral corruption but rather an expression of her unfiltered nature. She simply behaves according to her own desires, unaware of or indifferent to the consequences.

Societal Misinterpretation and Judgment

However, Daisy’s innocence is misinterpreted by those around her. To the Americans Mrs. Costello and Mrs. Walker, her behavior is inappropriate and reckless. This misunderstanding highlights how innocence is often mistaken for impropriety, especially in a world that prioritizes reputation over personal integrity. Even Winterbourne, who is intrigued by Daisy, cannot fully decide whether she is truly innocent or deliberately rebellious. He wavers between admiration and suspicion, ultimately failing to defend her when society turns against her.

A Tragic Fate and Misunderstood Purity

Daisy’s tragic fate further underscores the theme of innocence. Her nighttime visit to the Colosseum, which leads to her fatal illness, is a final act of naivety. She does not believe that her actions—walking with Giovanelli, ignoring Winterbourne’s warnings, and disregarding the dangers of malaria—could have such serious consequences. When she dies, she leaves behind a message for Winterbourne, revealing that she was never engaged to Giovanelli, a final confirmation that she was misunderstood all along. Giovanelli himself admits that Daisy was “the most innocent” young woman he had ever known, suggesting that her purity had always been apparent to those who looked beyond societal expectations.

Innocence as a Symbol of Cultural Clash

In the end, Daisy Miller’s innocence is not just a personal quality but a symbol of the clash between old-world social norms and new-world independence. Her death is not simply a result of illness but of a society unwilling to accept a woman who defies its conventions. Through her character, Henry James presents a powerful critique of rigid social judgment, showing that true innocence can be lost not through corruption, but through the harsh misinterpretations of those who refuse to understand it.