1. Artistic and Creative: Jeanne is an artist who specializes in painting. Her passion for art is evident throughout the novel, as she finds solace and expression in her creative pursuits. She cherishes the beauty of the world around her and sees the potential for artistic inspiration in everyday moments.
2. Independent and Opinionated: Jeanne is a strong-willed and independent woman who is not afraid to express her opinions. She challenges the societal norms and expectations of her time, particularly regarding gender roles and women's rights. She is outspoken and vocal about her beliefs, even if they go against the grain of traditional convention.
3. Emotionally Repressed: Despite her strong personality, Jeanne is also emotionally reserved. She often suppresses her feelings and struggles to communicate them effectively to those around her, especially her husband and children. This emotional distance sometimes creates barriers in her relationships and adds tension to her family life.
4. Complicated Relationship with Vincent: Jeanne and Vincent's marriage is complex and strained, with a blend of love, resentment, and secrets. They struggle with communication and trust, and their relationship is affected by past issues and unresolved conflicts. Jeanne's emotional repression further complicates their connection.
5. Unconventional Lifestyle: Jeanne's lifestyle is unconventional for the time period in which the novel is set. She has extramarital affairs and engages in artistic pursuits that are considered unconventional or scandalous by society. Her willingness to challenge societal norms reflects her independent and non-conformist nature.
6. Struggles with Identity: Jeanne grapples with questions of identity and self-discovery. She feels a sense of confinement and restriction in her domestic responsibilities and yearns for a more fulfilling and autonomous existence. Her journey to assert her identity becomes a central theme in the novel.
Overall, Jeanne is a dynamic and complex character who challenges conventional expectations. Her artistic temperament, independent spirit, and emotional struggles make her a compelling and relatable figure within the narrative.