The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories

Nearly all of the female main characters throughout the collection begin their journeys as virgins. This state of being acts both as a source of allure and a protective force. In two separate stories, Angela Carter compares virginity to a “pentacle,” a symbol traditionally associated with protective magic. In ceremonial magic, a pentacle garnished with words of power is used to protect a magician from malevolent spirits. The implication is that the virginity of these female characters acts as a protective barrier in the same way. In this context, virginity becomes somewhat synonymous with innocence; so long as these protagonists don’t yet understand the cruel realities of the world, those realities cannot hurt them.

Over the course of their journeys, several of these characters lose their virginity—sometimes willfully, sometimes less so. This theme is particularly prevalent in the title story, “The Bloody Chamber.” The unnamed narrator is chosen by an older, wealthier man who is drawn to this very power. Her virginity and inexperience puts her in juxtaposition with his previous wives. She balances desire and disgust at her physical relationship with him, surprised to find herself longing for that which repulses her.