What gender is the first narrator in Henry Turn of Screw?

The first narrator in Henry James' "The Turn of the Screw" is female. While the story doesn't explicitly state their gender, several clues point to a woman:

* The Governess's role: The first narrator is the governess, a traditionally female role in Victorian society.

* The use of "she" and "her" pronouns: Throughout the story, the first narrator refers to herself using female pronouns, particularly in the opening paragraphs.

* The story's themes: The story heavily explores themes of female agency, isolation, and repressed desire, which align with a female perspective.

While some readers have speculated about the first narrator's gender, the evidence overwhelmingly suggests that the narrator is indeed a woman.