One main theme is the fear of the unknown. The doll represents something that is not fully understood and thus feared.
Another theme could be the idea of possession, not in a supernatural way necessarily, but in terms of how the doll seems to possess the attention and emotions of the characters. It has a hold on them that is not easily explained. It might also touch on the theme of isolation, as the characters' relationship with the doll seems to isolate them further from normal human interactions.
In 'The Doll' from Daphne du Maurier's short stories, the atmosphere is key. The author is masterful at building a mood that is both mysterious and a bit foreboding. The doll might symbolize a repressed part of the characters' psyche or a hidden threat that lurks in the background of their seemingly ordinary lives.
One of the main themes is grief. The loss of the couple's daughter haunts them throughout the story. Another theme is the supernatural. There are elements that seem to defy explanation. Also, the theme of perception is important. The characters' different ways of seeing and interpreting events drive the story forward.
Daphne du Maurier's short stories are often filled with a sense of mystery and suspense. For example, in 'The Birds', the sudden and unexplained aggression of the birds creates a terrifying atmosphere. Her stories usually have strong female characters who are complex and often face difficult situations. This can be seen in many of her works where the female protagonists have to navigate through a world full of challenges and secrets.
Some of the well - known best Daphne du Maurier short stories include 'The Birds'. It's a terrifying tale where birds turn on humans in a menacing way. The atmosphere she creates is thick with suspense and dread.
She also uses foreshadowing a lot. In many of her stories, there are small hints and details early on that seem innocent at first but later turn out to be crucial elements in building the suspense. For instance, in 'The Apple Tree', certain comments made by the characters in the beginning set the stage for the complex and suspenseful events that follow.
One of the common themes is mystery. For example, in 'Rebecca', there is a great deal of mystery surrounding the first Mrs. de Winter. Gothic elements are also popular, like the brooding atmosphere in many of her works. Another theme is the complex relationships between men and women, often filled with power dynamics and unspoken tensions.
One of her best novels is 'Rebecca'. It's a classic gothic novel with a mysterious and alluring atmosphere. The unnamed protagonist is haunted by the shadow of Rebecca, her husband's first wife.
Daphne du Maurier's first novel was 'The Loving Spirit'.
The main theme in 'Don't Look Now' could be said to be about how our fears and expectations can distort reality. The story also touches on themes of grief and the supernatural.
The core theme in 'Don't Look Now' is a combination of fate and the unexpected. It makes you question how much control we have over our lives and what lies beyond our perception. Also, there's a strong undercurrent of psychological tension throughout.