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The average senior in highschool most likely lacks the ability to understand this novel from the perspective James intended.<br><br>The novel has many symbolic elements, such as the names of the characters and the settings. James often uses setting to move the characters through the story.<br><br>Several interesting points arise, such Dr. Sloper's very lowly death. Also, his view of women, the great exception being his dead wife. The fact that Sloper is such an acclaimed doctor, but cannot save his wife or first born son, is also insightful to his relationship with Catherine.<br><br>James uses the effects of other characters to shape Catherine Sloper into a full fledged heroine, one of the first of her time. She ages, grows, and becomes the social centerpiece in Washington Square. She chose to remain alone, and to put her efforts into more benefical outlets.<br><br>(Also, look at the grammar in the reviews that gave Washington Square a bad rate. That sure says a lot.)<br><br>If you enjoy James at all, I recommend that you read Daisy Miller as well. It is only about 30 or fewer pages. If you are doing an essay on Washington Square, Daisy Miller makes for excellent compare/contrast. It also can help you to understand James' style, making Washington Square easier to read and understand.<br><br>Although, as a emotionally deadened junoir from years of highschool explotation, I enjoyed the novel. I read it in about three days.