Early Griet:
* Naive and innocent: Griet is a young, inexperienced girl from a poor family. She's eager to learn and work hard, but she lacks worldly knowledge and social graces.
* Submissive and obedient: Raised in a strict household, Griet is initially timid and compliant, readily accepting orders and conforming to expectations.
* Dedicated and hardworking: Griet possesses a strong work ethic and takes pride in her abilities. She's determined to succeed in her role as a maid.
Griet's Transformation:
* Developing independence: As Griet spends time with Vermeer and his family, she starts to question societal norms and assert her own opinions. Her interactions with Vermeer, especially the artistic ones, awaken a sense of self and ambition.
* Growing intellectual curiosity: Griet's exposure to Vermeer's art and the intellectual atmosphere in his home fuels her desire to understand and appreciate beauty. She begins to question the world around her and develop her own aesthetic sensibilities.
* Discovering her own desires: While initially drawn to the stability and security of a marriage with Pieter, Griet gradually realizes that her true passion lies in art and the creative world she encounters with Vermeer. This realization leads to internal conflict and a struggle to reconcile her desires with societal expectations.
* Maturing emotionally: Griet's relationship with Vermeer, though unspoken, leads to emotional growth. She experiences a deep connection with him, but also the pain of unrequited love and the consequences of societal restrictions.
Final Griet:
* Stronger and more self-aware: Griet emerges as a more confident and independent woman. She recognizes her own worth and the value of her contributions, even in a society that limits her opportunities.
* With a newfound perspective: The experience with Vermeer has changed Griet's outlook on life. She understands the beauty of art and the importance of personal fulfillment, even if it comes at a cost.
* A symbol of unspoken yearning and quiet strength: Griet's final image, leaving Vermeer's house with a newfound clarity, reflects her resilience and the enduring power of her experiences.
While Griet's journey is ultimately one of personal growth, it's also a poignant reflection of the societal constraints and limitations faced by women in 17th century Holland. Her story emphasizes the enduring human desire for freedom, self-expression, and the pursuit of dreams, even when faced with societal barriers.