Psyche |
Likewise, Griet also receives attention from Vermeer’s rich patron Van Ruijven who asks for her to come and work in his household, a situation that left another girl’s reputation tarnished on his behalf. This negative attention climaxes to the point where Griet has to fend off Van Ruijven in his attempt to rape her. Also, just like Psyche, Griet is faced with jealousy from another character that proves to be the Vermeer’s wife Catharina. The envious tension between the two starts with Griet giving entry to Vermeer’s studio to help him with his work – access that Catharina was never granted. Catharina’s distress becomes more apparent as she realizes that a painting of Griet has been kept a secret from her and her pearl earrings used. She becomes so furious that she orders Vermeer to show her the painting and heartbroken tries unsuccessfully to destroy it. Then feeling severely betrayed Catharina banishes Griet from the house forever.
Lastly, we see an appearance of strong archetypes through the vibrant blue and yellow scarf and earrings worn in Griet's portrait. The dark color blue proves to us the strong sense of innocence and truth that she possesses. Griet’s character is shown to be innocent by her shy nature and vulnerability to her new environment. Her innocence is also due to her modesty and refusal to show her hair in the presence of anyone including Vermeer when he asked. The yellow also symbolizes the youthfulness and silent optimism in the her personality. Such can be proven through Griet's persistence in winning the encouragement, companionship and mentoring of the master Vermeer. Lastly through the focal point of the pearl earring and the colour white the archetype of purity, peace, and goodness is expressed.