“A Femme Fatale, translating to “Deadly Woman” in french, is an alluring, seductive woman whose charms ensnare her lovers in bonds of irresistible desire. Often this leads them into compromising, dangerous, and deadly situations.” ~ Wikipedia
I first discovered this class of women from 1930s and 40s film noir several years ago and was seduced by their charm and cunning minds. I then began to see them popping up in novels I read, even my favorites like Gone with the Wind and Wuthering Heights. This new weekly post is to highlight/celebrate/condemn these sultry and conniving ladies in literature.
Dolores Haze otherwise know as Lolita is the epitome of a Femme Fatale. The name Dolores means sorrow or can refer to the Virgin Mary. Well Dolores does live a sorrowful life, with her mother dying at a young age and then being watched most dubiously by her step-father Humbert Humbert with eventually the only option being sex. Even with her dirty unkempt hair and bony knees she is still a nymphet, a vixen, a desire. While Lolita is not a model student she excels in manipulating persons to get her way either with her sex appeal or girlish charm Lo entices those around her into getting the lead in school plays or the latest record. She is sensual and a fatale in her own right.
some very interesting comments-I will also be joining in Jane in June
I love Lolita. An excellent summer read.
Oh, I've been wanting to read this book! Ever since I read Reading Lolita in Tehran I wanted to read Lolita because there were, obviously, so many references to the book.
Emidy – do it fast!
I can't begin to say how much I adore Lolita. It's just such a ridiculously charming and clever read.
And as much as Humbert Humbert might appear to be a predator, Dolores does little in the way of dissuading him. Aah, so great!
I'm reading Lolita right now!
Mel–Thanks. I'm looking forward to starting Jane in June next week.
Tiffany– It's a great read anytime!
Emidy–I agree with Bethany, do it fast!
Bethany– I think part of the appeal of the book is that Lolita encourages this behavior. Genius!
Letter4no1– I hope you enjoy Lolita, it's a great read!
I loved Lolita! Disturbing but wonderfully written.
Very disturbing!
I just bought myself a copy of Lolita, can't wait to read it!
It's wonderful! I hope you enjoy it.
I am loving your femme fatale fridays (even though I am late). Lolita is one of my faves because she was just evil from pretty much the beginning 🙂
I'm glad you're enjoying Femme Fatale Fridays Felicia! In my opinion, Lolita is the ultimate fatale. How could Humbert and Quilty have fallen for her otherwise?
I loved Lolita, but keep in mind that Dolores is viewed through Humbert Humbert's eyes and it may not be an accurate portrayal of how she really is. Of course he is going to blame her for his desire and not take any responsibility. Who knows how much of their interaction and her behavior was part of his imagination or just how he misinterpreted her behavior.