Talk:Fabiola (novel)

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The fact that film versions keep replacing Syra with a male character who is a love interest

Makes me wonder what Subtext this Novel might have?--JaredMithrandir (talk) 08:56, 1 July 2017 (UTC)[reply]

I an not certain if the novel has lesbian subtext, but I would not be surprised if it has queer fandom. See Fabiola

The description of Fabiola at the opening of the book describes her as relatively attractive, but rather spoiled: "It is by no means our intention, nor our gift, to describe persons or features; we wish more to deal with minds. We will, therefore, content ourselves with saying, that Fabiola, now at the age of twenty, was not considered inferior in appearance to other ladies of her rank, age, and fortune, and had many aspirants for her hand. But she was a contrast to her father in temper and in character. Proud, haughty, imperious, and irritable, she ruled like an empress all that surrounded her..."

Syra is one of her slaves: "Three female slaves are now engaged about their mistress. ... The name which the third bears, Syra, tells us that she comes from Asia; and she is distinguished for her exquisite embroidering, and for her assiduous diligence. She is quiet, silent, but completely engaged with the duties which now devolve upon her."

The two women soon get into an argument. Fabiola's other slaves praise their own work and express their desires, but Syra claims to desire nothing. Fabiola complains that she has never heard a soft word from Syra. Syra replies with criticism against insincere flattery, which Fabiola mistakes for a reproof against her.

Fabiola angrily replies: "Have you yet to learn then... that you are mine, and have been bought by me at a high price, that you might serve me as I please? I have as good a right to the service of your tongue as of your arms..."

The relationship is about dominance and submission, and may have BDSM implications. As for the service of Syra's tongue, insert your own joke about oral sex. Dimadick (talk) 20:01, 2 July 2017 (UTC)[reply]