Daisy is described as a young American woman whose looks are quite pretty, and she is traveling alone throughout Europe. The way James describes the attractions of the high society, we can certainly see why Daisy sees it as a big deal and wants to become part of that high society. The atmosphere is happy and carefree, and like Daisy, we may want to see what the European high society offers. The story does not stay in such a peaceful tone though. Not so good things begin to happen; it all starts with Winterbourne's aunt's rejection of Daisy, and how she is sick and simply cannot meet her. Gradually we will begin to see the doors of society closing in. After the cheerful opening, this terrible atmosphere is unexpected, and it's hard to even find out where the tragedy starts. Despite being seen as a "pretty American flirt", Daisy is likable, and with her "extraordinary mixture of innocence and crudity", she always seems to have the best attitude about everything, having "a sweetness and softness that reverted instinctively to the pardon of offenses". While reading it is safe to wonder if we should agree with Winterbourne that she is simply "uncultivated", and if she had just a little more experience in social relations she could be different. Take an "innocent" character, put her in a seemingly safe and beautiful environment, let her get involved in the wrong things which in return lead her life into a downward spiral, and what do you get? A classic, comically-masked tragedy, almost paralyzing in the unavoidable abruptness of its onset.
We can also argue that she is perhaps not so innocent. We can argue this because of her reaction to Winterbourne's aunt's excuse that she isn't feeling well: she gives a seemingly sarcastic laugh and comes to the conclusion that the aunt has refused to be introduced to her. This small expression of attitude shows us perhaps a new side to the "pretty American flirt," who might have been expected to believe the lie because she was "uncultivated" as Winterbourne thought.