Lolita vs. Charlotte: Mother-Daughter Conflict

Lolita

Explores the tense relationship between Lolita and her mother Charlotte.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Constant BickeringThe Constant Bickering
The Household Tension The Arguments Charlotte and Lolita frequently argue over trivial matters. Charlotte is strict and critical; Lolita is defiant. The Jealousy Charlotte is jealous of Lolita's youth and beauty. She sees her as a rival for Humbert's attention. The Power Imbalance Charlotte has authority but Lolita uses passive resistance.
The Camp DecisionThe Camp Decision
The Exile The Plan Charlotte decides to send Lolita to Camp Q for the summer, partly to get her away from Humbert. The Reaction Lolita is furious and feels rejected. She accuses her mother of trying to get rid of her. The Aftermath Lolita goes to camp, where she begins her sexual adventures with Charlie Holmes.
The Final ClashThe Final Clash
The Breaking Point The Discovery Charlotte discovers Humbert's diary and realizes he loves Lolita. She confronts Humbert and plans to take Lolita away. The Confrontation with Lolita Charlotte's anger is directed at both Humbert and Lolita. She blames Lolita for seducing him. The Death Charlotte's death ends the conflict abruptly. Lolita is left without a mother, at Humbert's mercy.
June 1947, in Ramsdale
June 1947, in Ramsdale
Late July 1947, in Ramsdale