ABSTRACT
In both The Ambassadors and The Golden Bowl, the presence of America is powerfully conveyed from its measured distance. Woollett and American City are no less real for being far away, and their presence broods over the action. However distant and shadowy, they are an all-powerful determinant. If they produce the passing shudder, that moment of inspired resistance, of pained recognition, theirs is nevertheless the kingdom and the form of destiny. The Prince and Maggie Verver may escape, but at the cost of being powerless dependents.
