"Daisy Miller" by Henry James is a fascinating story of an unsuccessful love. The reasons for this tragic conclusion reflect the story's central themes of cultural difference and the enduring conflict between the individual and society. The differing standards that regulate social conduct in America and Europe, especially as regards the proper comportment of women, are evident throughout the work. Are these themes that anyone, anywhere on this planet can relate to? For example, Daisy lacks the reserve of European women in her dealings with men. She is a flirt who sits in corners with mysterious men, dances all evening with the same partner, and receives visits at eleven o'clock at night. While these behaviors might not be condemned in America, they create a scandal among Daisy's European acquaintances. Raised in an America, which allowed women greater autonomy in dealing with the opposite sex, Daisy had no qualms about expressing her desire for male companionship.
             Additionally, Daisy transgressed European social norms by associating with people of lower classes, including chambermaids and couriers. Daisy treated her courier like he was part of the family, by allowing him to take part in making family decision and letting him eat on the same table as them. She is considered less than them. Because of her treating servants with the respect and courtesy to which their humanity entitles them, she became the object of mean-spirited gossip. Could it be that she treats all people with the same respect and courtesy, that she can see past the social class system and treat everyone the same, as human beings that they are. It is clear, though, that such an attitude on the behalf of European women was wholly hypocritical, as was demonstrated by the willingness of these women to chatter about Daisy even while in church. We as a society tend to judge others based on appearance, but we should look at ourselves before we can judge others. Appa...