[LMB] re Bujold characters

[Elizabeth Holden]

I asked about schooling for women in Barrayar and
Dorian said:

> I can't remember if there's any textev for this
> (probably not), 

No, I can't remember any specific reference either. By
Miles' time things are changing and schools are being
set up for everyone, but in the previous generation -
I can't recall references either way.

> but I always 
> have the impression that the Barrayaran female
> (unless of the poorest 
> classes) is educated to the point where she can
> read, write, and keep the household accounts.  

That's what I was imagining, just judging by parallels
to our own history.

> I don't see her as cold and self-important, myself. 
> More as duty-driven, 
> the more so as she has lost her husband. 

That makes sense, given the text; but it's hard for me
to be equally charitable towards her.

> I do think she softens a
> little round the edges once 
> she and Illyan get together, though.

I would like to think so.

> (BTW, what does "namaste" mean?)

"My spirit salutes your spirit."
 
namaste,
Elizabeth