The Mystery Behind the Mask The genius of the story is chiefly in the conception of Miss Bordereau herself, who is no wistful survivor of the past, but a diabolical incarnation of it, greedy of its power to bargain with the present, and wearing over her eyes, as celebrated in Aspern’s verse, a green eyeshade like a gamble’s. F.W. Dupree In Henry James’ novel, The Aspern Papers, out the three main characters …showed first 75 words of 1233 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1233 total…the prevalent themes of a quest, the past versus the present, and the evil which money can bring. The strong character of Juliana combined with her mysterious motives and secret lifestyle is the backbone to Henry James’ novel The Aspern Papers. Whether Miss Bordereau is viewed as evil or good, her presence, impact, and actions are fully felt throughout the book and always keep the reader wondering what exactly the mystery is behind the mask.