The Character of Puss

The story of Puss In Boots presents us with the first male narrator in Angela Carter's collection. He is very different to the characters of the female narrators, and is even quite unlike any of the male characters in the other stories. Portrayed as the 'Brighella', Puss is the servant of a soldier, helping him to seduce women and acquire food. From the start, the reader is aware that the cat is sexually promiscuous; "...can slip into my lady's chamber". Even his linguistic prowess suggests his obsession for sex; "Merrrrrrci!".

Puss uses his wit and manipulative charm in order to gain, be it food or information. Although it is written that they are poverished; "[we] never go hungry." But it does connotate prostitution, Puss's run-in with the Tabby suggests he uses sex to gain things. Though, he seems to be mature and experienced. His language which is predominantly long sentences with many pauses allows the readers internal monologue to create a sophisticated yet knowledgeable voice. However the reader is reminded of the fairy-tale-like aspect to the story; he is after all, a talking cat.

Finally the reader is aware that Puss dislikes the idea of love. He feels it is a dangerous conquest. This could be his animalistic qualities setting in; as animals do not fall in love, or it could be part of his 'Brighella' character. We know that the Brighella is a loyal servant, but wants the company of his master to himself, he is scheming and often devious, which indeed, Puss is; "Then Master and his Puss will soon be solvent once again." It could also be argued that Puss is slightly homo-erotic; for he is trying to lead his master out of love, and; "...if he doesn't like me to knead his nipples, which, out of the purest affection and desire...".

But, one thing that makes him similar to a male Gothic character? His love for corrupting women; "then what other valet could slip into a young girl's sacred privacy and deliver her a billet-doux at the very moment when she's reading her prayerbook with her sainted mother?" Classic. I expect we will see Puss scheme up a plan to rouse his Master out of love, it could go wrong or not.