Analysis

Virginia Woolf’s short story “The Legacy” has a linear structure. The plot advances in chronological order with few references to the past represented by Angela’s diary entries. 

The main characters include Gilbert Clandon, a politician, and Angela, Gilbert’s wife who committed suicide. Sissy Miller, who is Angela’s secretary, and the mysterious B.M., Angela’s secret lover, are also important characters. 

The physical setting of the story is London around the year 1940. The action takes place in Angela’s drawing-room, where Gilbert reads her diary. The social setting explores gender issues and class differences.

The story is told by a third-person narrator, who focuses on Gilbert Clandon’s perspective. The narration uses a stream of consciousness technique to present Gilbert’s thoughts.

When it comes to language, the short story provides an ironical tone, meaning that the reader is more aware of the truth than the main character. Several symbols such as the diary or the brooch enhance the story’s meaning.

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.