Madame Merle

Madame Merle is a character from Henry James’s novel *The Portrait of a Lady*. She is an elegant, sophisticated woman with a keen intellect and a subtle, manipulative nature. Merle serves as a friend and confidante to the protagonist, Isabel Archer, but also influences her decisions in complex ways. She embodies charm and cultural refinement, yet her true intentions are often ambiguous, reflecting themes of societal influence and moral ambiguity. Overall, Madame Merle is a nuanced character who represents both allure and the potential for manipulation within social relationships.