Mrs Midas: Themes; Isolation

“Mrs Midas: Themes - Isolation”

The Theme of Isolation

Isolation is central to “Mrs Midas”, explored through both physical and emotional distancing.
The development of the golden touch in Mr. Midas causes a gradual detachment between him and his wife, leading eventually to their total separation.
His golden touch becomes a barrier, isolating him from normal human interactions and relationships, particularly with his wife.

Mrs Midas’s Isolation in the House

Initially, Mrs Midas feels isolated within her own home due to her husband’s behavior. It is shown when she finds herself disconnected from him, forced to communicate through a closed door (‘I locked the cat in the cellar. / I sat in the kitchen, alone’).
The house, which should be a space of comfort and intimacy, becomes a place of estrangement and danger, adding to Mrs. Midas’ sense of isolation.

Symbolism of Isolation

The field of the hare where Mr. Midas frequently visits symbolizes his increasing isolation due to his ill-considered wish.
The owl and the fox eyed by Mrs Midas through her binoculars represent her isolation and observational position as she can only watch her husband from a distance.

Isolation and the Conclusion

The Volta in the ninth stanza marks the zenith of Mrs. Midas’ fear, leading her to enforce a physical distance between them, highlighting her feelings of isolation.
The final stanza places Mrs Midas in total isolation, with her sleeping alone where her husband can’t touch her. This signifies the devastating effect of isolation caused by greed and thoughtlessness.
Mrs. Midas’ longing for the past before the golden touch, symbolised by the wishbone, accentuates her emotional isolation in dealing with the consequences of her husband’s actions.

Remember to connect these points and reference specific lines from the poem when writing essays or responses on this topic. Understanding the theme of isolation in “Mrs Midas” will enrich your analysis of the text.