Margaret Atwood's novel "Alias Grace" is based loosely around the historical character of Grace Marks, a jailed murderess. The novel depicts her childhood and describes the events that led to the murders - crimes she may or may not have committed. Sexuality seems to be the main focus of many events of nearly every character in this story. This period in history was indeed marked with a peculiar fascination for the opposite sex. By briefly examining the role of women during the Victorian Era when these historical events take place, we can better understand how it's importance ties in with the novel. Sexuality is frequently expressed throughout Alias Grace and it can be broken down into three different elements: repression, beauty, and love versus lust.
Strict attitudes toward the standards of men and women are displayed throughout. When Grace is picked up by Mr. Kinnear at Richmond Hill, she is surprised that he allows her to sit up front with him and she states, "I was quite embarrassed, as I was not used to sitting beside a gentleman" (242). Many times it's noted that men and women were not allowed to be in alone in a room together, specifically when Mrs. Humphrey faints in Dr. Jordan's room and he carries her to his bed. She awakes and gets flushed, stating that "[she] must leave at once"(163). At various times as Grace recollects her past, there is great significance surrounding what people are thinking, or saying, in regards to her behavior. It seems society was a dominant factor in the good behavior of many people, as the consequences of getting a bad reputation were severe. But why is this?.
One element of sexuality most prominently displayed is sexual repression. This was shown through the book by flirting, daydreaming, or actually engaging in sex. Many of the standards developed by the upper or middle-class were based greatly on religion "as religion and thrashing are the only remedies for a depraved nature and our immoral souls must be considered" (28).