Scarlett O'Hara's Inexcusable Behaviors as Portrayed in 'Gone with the Wind'

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction, Gone with the Wind explores the complex character of Scarlett O'Hara. While many readers and characters see Scarlett as courageous and irrepressible, her inexcusable actions are often highlighted. This article delves into the behaviors of Scarlett O'Hara that are deemed morally questionable and inexcusable by the other characters in the story.

Manipulating Relationships

Scarlett's pursuit of Ashley Wilkes, despite knowing of his engagement to Melanie Hamilton, is seen as morally questionable. Her refusal to let go of her obsession with Ashley creates tension and conflict among the characters. This obsession leads to further inexcusable actions and behaviors.

Treatment of Melanie Hamilton

Even after Melanie marries Ashley, Scarlett's jealousy leads her to act insensitively toward Melanie. Melanie is portrayed as kind and self-sacrificing, and Scarlett's lack of respect for Melanie's feelings and her manipulative behavior are viewed as inexcusable by other characters. This section explores the specific instances where Scarlett's behavior towards Melanie is of particular concern.

Using Frank Kennedy for Financial Security

Scarlett marries Frank Kennedy for financial security, not out of love, as she is aware that he is in love with her. Her use of his affections to achieve her goals is seen by many characters as an act of betrayal. This section discusses the specific instances where Scarlett's behavior with Frank is inexcusable.

Destruction of Property and Selfishness in Crisis

In a moment of desperation, Scarlett fires a gun at a looter, endangering her life and showcasing her reckless disregard for the safety of others. Throughout the hardships of the Civil War and Reconstruction, Scarlett often prioritizes her own survival and desires, leading to strained relationships and a lack of empathy for those around her. This section explores the specific instances where Scarlett's selfishness is highlighted.

Context and Perception

While Scarlett's selfish motives are exposed to the readers, many characters see her as courageous and irrepressible. The only person who ultimately condemns her is Rhett Butler, who can no longer tolerate her inexcusable behavior even after saving her life and regaining her social standing. This section delves into Rhett Butler's perspective and the eventual rift between them.

Early Inexcusable Behaviors

In the beginning of the book, Scarlett resents the societal expectations that make her appear sweet and brainless. She is actually self-centered and selfish but learns to play the game to her advantage. Her first inexcusable behavior is seen when she suppresses her grief over her first husband's death, prioritizing fashion and dancing over genuine mourning. She uses this veneer to gain access to her boy band crush, Ashley Wilkes.

Further Inexcusable Acts

The death of her first husband prompts Scarlett to step up and take charge. She rallies the family and bullies them into surviving the difficult times. Her subsequent actions, including stealing her sister's boyfriend for his money, bringing prison labor to run her mills, and driving a wedge between Ashley and his family, further highlight her inexcusable behavior. These actions not only damage others but also isolate her from the social structure she once belonged to.

Conclusion

Throughout 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett O'Hara's characters is a complex and multidimensional figure, known for her survival instincts and inexcusable behavior. While she often provokes strong reactions from those around her, her inexcusable actions continue to be a focal point of the narrative. This article aims to provide a detailed analysis of these behaviors, drawing on the perspectives of the characters in the book.