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At first I would have had to agree with the notion that the characters in Howard’s End place too strong an emphasis on the importance of culture and intellect. After giving it some thought, however, I see this as another instance of me imposing my beliefs on an outside situation. A few weeks ago in our group discussions in class, we explored the notion of imposing one’s culture on someone else’s; we specifically discussed the FGM tradition, and how, although it may seem barbaric to us here, it is sacred to those who perform it in other parts of the world. I see the connection here, it seems, between these two thoughts: if Helen’s priority is art and culture and intellect, and she chooses to base her life around it, then as an outsider I must submit.

I have to argue, however, that Helen or Margaret, or any of these members of the higher class, would not possess such culture and appreciation for the arts if it were not for their social status. It is because they were born with the luxury of living this way, reading early, being exposed to culture, that they possess this. Some may argue that they did not control their cultural destiny, but rather only maintain it. Perhaps we should give more credit to someone who works his or her way up after starting from the very bottom.

I feel that Henry is emotionally crippled, going through the motions of life and as cited by Danielle, is “eternally tired.” The characters are weaving some mysterious and tangled webs, and it is causing me to question the financial stability of some of them..