Isabel increasingly feels trapped in her marriage as she begins to recognize her husband Gilbert Osmond’s selfish and domineering nature. Isolated in her relationship, she starts to question her past decisions and struggles with regret and self-doubt. Her friendship with Ralph Touchett provides some solace, but his health is rapidly deteriorating. Isabel finds herself torn between her longing for freedom and the constraints imposed by her marriage.

The Weight of Marriage and Choices
CHAPTER XXVIII
CHAPTER XXIX
CHAPTER XXX
CHAPTER XXXI
CHAPTER XXXII
CHAPTER XXXIII
CHAPTER XXXIV
CHAPTER XXXV
CHAPTER XXXVI
CHAPTER XXXVII