Why Does Rhett Butler Blame Scarlett for Ashley and Scarlett’s Infatuation?

The question of why Rhett Butler seems to place the blame of the emotional affair between Ashley and Scarlett solely on Scarlett remains a point of contention among readers. Many wonder why he never directly confronts Ashley but solely accuses Scarlett instead. In this analysis, we explore Rhett's perspective and the reasons behind his behavior.

The Instigator: Scarlett O'Hara

Scarlett O'Hara, the main character, is indeed the primary instigator of the emotional affair between Ashley and herself. She is a complex and often flawed character known for her razor-sharp focus on obtaining what she wants. This focus and her manipulative nature are evident in her relationships. Charles Hamilton, Suellen, and Rhett all bear witness to her emotional and physical manipulation. However, Rhett, despite his rough exterior, knew Scarlett's true nature when they married, complicating their relationship.

Rhett Butler's Unwavering Perseverance

Rhett Butler, despite his often brash and direct demeanor, is not as naive as he might appear. He understands Scarlett's motives and actions. However, his relationship with Scarlett is more complicated. Rhett is married to her, and his hope is that she will ultimately let go of her long-held obsession with Ashley Wilkes. Ashley's feelings are seen as less relevant to Rhett because he is married to her.

The Misunderstood Ashley Wilkes

It is worth clarifying that Ashley Wilkes is not solely responsible for Scarlett's infatuation. According to the book and the movie "Gone with the Wind," Ashley is devoted to his wife, Melanie. There was never an actual affair between Scarlett and Ashley; it was purely Scarlett's imagination and unrequited infatuation. Gerald O'Hara, Scarlett's father, and Rhett both held little respect for Ashley and the Wilkes family, considering them too intellectual and eccentric. Gerald O'Hara even expressed reluctance to approve a union between Scarlett and Ashley, due to Scarlett's passionate and ambitious nature.

Rhett's Naivety and Realization

Rhett, while experienced and sophisticated, can sometimes be naive in his understanding of people, especially women. When Scarlett confronted Ashley about his engagement and slapped him, Rhett was asleep on the couch in the same room. This shows how much he was unaware of their interaction, highlighting his initial naivety. Over the course of the story, Rhett comes to realize that Scarlett's infatuation with Ashley is a product of her own character and her age. She is 17 at the beginning of the story, and her passion and desire for Ashley are a reflection of her youth. Only later, at the age of 27, does Scarlett find herself in love with Rhett after she destroys any hope of happiness with Ashley.

Conclusion: A Complicated Love Triangle

The infatuation between Scarlett and Ashley is a complex and multifaceted issue in the story. Rhett Butler places the blame on Scarlett for several reasons. His understanding of her character and his marriage to her make him more aware of her emotional motives. Ashley, on the other hand, is seen as less culpable because he remains devoted to Melanie throughout the story. Despite this, all three main characters—Rhett, Scarlett, and Ashley—eventually find their true feelings and come to terms with their complex love triangle.