[LMB] Alys [Was: Re Bujold characters]

[Mitch Miller]

I don't remember if Alys's age is mentioned in Barrayar, but my
impression of her is that she was educated, undoubtedly at a 
Barrayaran equivalent of one of the Seven Sisters.  She struck
me very much as the social lion type with which I was familiar
with as a kid.  Smart as hell, capable of utter ruthlessness when
necessary to achieve her goal, perfectly capable of acting like
an airhead if she thinks that's the best strategy.  But don't for
a moment think she's dumb, or you'll get your head handed you in an
instant, boy.  

Fortunately, she uses her powers for good.  Not all of them do.

See Katherine Hepburn in "Bringing Up Baby" as a model.

Mitch Miller


From: Elizabeth Holden <azurite at rogers.com>

<snip>
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.

<snip>
 
namaste,
Elizabeth