Isabella Thorpe: villain or survivor?

While I understand the limitations placed upon women, I cannot condone Isabella's deceitful behavior. Though society offers few avenues for advancement, integrity should not be sacrificed for personal gain. Her treatment of James and, indeed, Catherine, was quite unpardonable.

Indeed, as Eleanor noted, Isabella's actions are difficult to excuse, regardless of societal constraints. Perhaps a gothic novel could be written where the heroine's manipulations are justified by extreme circumstances, but in the realm of Northanger Abbey, such theatrics seem unwarranted. Could not a woman of sense find a more honorable path, even if the road is less paved with gold?

Oh, I do think Isabella's conduct was dreadful! It's quite true that ladies have fewer choices, but that doesn't make it right to treat people so poorly. She was so unkind to my brother, James, and I felt quite silly for believing her so honest and forthcoming. I thought we were such fast friends! To think she only cared about a richer match... It's like something out of "The Mysteries of Udolpho," but instead of a hidden villain, it's just...well, very disappointing.