Vanity Fair Lesson Plan

Discuss the role that Becky's flirting plays in her marriage to Rawdon.

Rebecca's flirting is a major part of the support that she provides for Rawdon and herself. One night, while sitting around with a bunch of gentlemen, she makes a joke about needing a sheepdog to keep the wolves away from her. One of the men encourages her, asking if the shepherd is not enough. Playfully, she responds that he is always away playing cards at his clubs.

Rebecca is, of course, referring to Rawdon and suggesting that one of these men become her new companion—but Rawdon does not pick up on the metaphor. Indeed, even if he were to notice that she was making fun of him, there isn't much...