Breakfast at Tiffany's Study Guide: Capote's Characters & Literary Devices

Introduction

Dive into the enchanting world of Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories, a collection that showcases the exquisite talent of Truman Capote, an author celebrated for his unique narrative voice and deep psychological insights. 📚✨ Published in 1958, Breakfast at Tiffany’s is a novella accompanied by three captivating short stories, each one a testament to Capote’s mastery over the written word and his ability to explore complex human emotions and societal nuances.

Contents

Truman Capote, a literary icon of the 20th century, is renowned for his vibrant prose, intricate character studies, and his innovative contributions to the American literary scene. His works often blur the lines between fiction and reality, inviting readers into worlds that are as enchanting as they are poignant.

The genre of this collection can be described as literary fiction, with elements of drama, romance, and social commentary. Capote’s writing not only entertains but also provokes thought, exploring themes of loneliness, identity, and the quest for meaning in a post-war society. 🌆💔

Whether you’re drawn in by the allure of Holly Golightly in the bustling streets of New York or captivated by the intricate human dramas of the accompanying stories, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories is a collection that promises to leave a lasting impression. Join me as we explore the elegance, the emotion, and the exquisite storytelling of Truman Capote. Let’s begin!

Plot Summary

Breakfast at Tiffany’s — The novella introduces us to the charming and enigmatic Holly Golightly, a New York socialite with a mysterious past, through the eyes of an unnamed narrator who becomes fascinated by her. Holly lives off the generosity of wealthy men, dreams of a better life, and finds solace in visits to Tiffany’s jewelry store, seeing it as a place where nothing bad can happen to her.

Exposition: The story sets in 1940s New York, where the unnamed narrator moves into a brownstone and meets Holly Golightly, his neighbor, who is a young, vivacious, and somewhat enigmatic figure leading a seemingly glamorous life.
Rising Action: Holly’s background, her aspirations, and her complex relationships are revealed, including her friendship with the narrator. The plot thickens as Holly’s past catches up with her, and we learn about her true identity and her escape from a teenage marriage in Texas.
Climax: The story reaches its peak when Holly’s former husband visits New York, hoping to bring her back, and shortly afterward, she gets involved with a wealthy Brazilian man, which seems to offer her the stability she seeks. However, her life takes a turn when she is arrested for her association with a mobster, which ruins her social standing and her relationship.
Falling Action: After her arrest, Holly is abandoned by many of her so-called friends and the Brazilian man, leading her to reevaluate her life and her choices.
Resolution: The story concludes with Holly deciding to leave for Brazil to escape her legal troubles and start anew, leaving behind the narrator and her life in New York. The narrator reflects on Holly’s impact on his life and learns, years later, of her possible sighting in Africa, symbolizing her undying spirit and refusal to be caged.

Three Stories — This collection also includes “House of Flowers,” “A Diamond Guitar,” and “A Christmas Memory,” each exploring themes of love, loss, and human connection in distinct settings, from the exotic backdrop of Haiti to a rural American South.

House of Flowers: Tells the story of Ottilie, a young woman from Haiti who must choose between the uncertainty of love and the security of her familiar world.
A Diamond Guitar: Focuses on the bond between two prisoners, Mr. Schaeffer and Tico Feo, highlighting themes of longing and the fleeting nature of happiness.
A Christmas Memory: A deeply moving tale of a young boy and his elderly cousin, who share a final Christmas together, capturing the innocence and beauty of their friendship and the harshness of the world around them.

Together, these stories paint a rich tapestry of human experience, showcasing Capote’s ability to delve into the depths of his characters’ souls and illuminate the universal truths that bind us.

Character Analysis

Truman Capote’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories presents a collection of vividly drawn characters, each with their own intricacies and depths. Here’s a closer look at some of the main characters from these works:

Holly Golightly — A young, beautiful, and socially ambitious woman with a mysterious past, Holly is the central figure of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She embodies the complexities of seeking freedom and love while navigating a society that often prizes wealth and status above genuine connection. Holly’s charm, wit, and resilience mask her vulnerabilities and deep-seated longing for a place where she truly belongs.
The Narrator (Fred) — The unnamed narrator of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, often thought to represent Capote himself, is a struggling writer who becomes infatuated with Holly. His perspective offers a reflective and often poignant view of Holly’s life, capturing both her allure and her sadness. Through his eyes, we explore themes of friendship, love, and the pain of unrequited feelings.
Ottilie (House of Flowers) — Ottilie is a young woman who must navigate her desires and fears within the context of love and tradition. Her journey reflects the struggle between following one’s heart and adhering to societal expectations, a theme that resonates deeply in Capote’s work.
Mr. Schaeffer (A Diamond Guitar) — An older prisoner, Mr. Schaeffer’s life changes when he forms a bond with a new inmate, Tico Feo. His story explores themes of longing, the passage of time, and the transformative power of human connection, even in the most unlikely of places.
Tico Feo (A Diamond Guitar) — A charismatic and vibrant young prisoner, Tico brings a sense of hope and excitement to Mr. Schaeffer’s life. His presence and the diamond guitar symbolize the possibilities of beauty and redemption, even within the confines of a prison.
Buddy (A Christmas Memory) — Representing Capote’s own childhood, Buddy is a sensitive and imaginative boy who shares a deep bond with his elderly cousin. Their relationship, set against the backdrop of their final Christmas together, highlights the purity and depth of their connection, untouched by the harsh realities of the world.
Miss Sook (A Christmas Memory) — Buddy’s elderly cousin, Miss Sook, is a gentle and eccentric soul who, despite her simple life, possesses a profound understanding of love and joy. Her relationship with Buddy captures the essence of childhood wonder and the bittersweet nature of memory and loss.

Character	Personality Traits	Motivations	Development
Holly Golightly	Charismatic, complex, vulnerable	Seeks love and belonging while maintaining her independence	Grows in self-awareness, though her quest for freedom remains
The Narrator (Fred)	Reflective, compassionate, observant	Desires connection and understanding, particularly with Holly	Deepens in empathy and understanding of human complexity
Ottilie	Brave, conflicted, yearning	Torn between love and societal expectations	Embarks on a journey of self-discovery and choice
Mr. Schaeffer	Lonely, reflective, hopeful	Seeks redemption and companionship	Learns the painful lesson of transient connections
Tico Feo	Energetic, hopeful, enigmatic	Desires freedom and joy	Acts as a catalyst for change in Mr. Schaeffer’s life
Buddy	Innocent, imaginative, sensitive	Seeks love, connection, and the beauty in simple joys	Faces the inevitability of growing up and losing innocence
Miss Sook	Eccentric, loving, wise	Lives for the joy of her relationship with Buddy and the simplicity of life	Remains a symbol of pure, unconditional love

Through these characters, Capote explores the depths of human emotion, the complexities of relationships, and the eternal search for belonging and meaning.

Themes and Symbols

In “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories,” Truman Capote explores a variety of themes and employs rich symbolism to enhance the depth and meaning of his narratives. Let’s delve into some of the major themes and symbols present in these works.

Themes

Search for Identity — Many of Capote’s characters grapple with their sense of self and strive to find their place in the world. Holly Golightly’s elusive nature and her attempts to reinvent herself reflect the universal quest for identity and belonging.
Loneliness and Connection — Across the stories, characters experience deep loneliness and seek meaningful connections. The relationships between characters, such as the bond between Buddy and Miss Sook in “A Christmas Memory,” highlight the human need for companionship and understanding.
Freedom vs. Confinement — This theme is evident in the physical and emotional constraints faced by the characters. Holly’s desire to escape societal expectations and the literal imprisonment of characters in “A Diamond Guitar” underscore the tension between freedom and confinement.
Innocence and Loss — Capote often juxtaposes innocence with the loss or corruption of innocence. The purity of the relationship in “A Christmas Memory” contrasts with the more complex, sometimes sordid realities of adult life explored in the other stories.

Symbols

Tiffany’s — In “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” Tiffany’s jewelry store represents a place of safety and comfort for Holly, a sanctuary where the harshness of the world cannot reach her. It symbolizes her quest for stability and a sense of home.
The Diamond Guitar — The guitar in “A Diamond Guitar” symbolizes hope, beauty, and the possibility of redemption within the confines of prison life. It also represents the transient nature of human connections.
Fruitcake — In “A Christmas Memory,” the act of making fruitcakes for acquaintances and strangers alike symbolizes love, generosity, and the human capacity for kindness, even in the face of poverty and hardship.
Birdcage — Holly Golightly’s birdcage, which she refuses to fill with a bird because it would mean caging something that should be free, symbolizes her own desire for freedom and her fear of being trapped by societal expectations or personal relationships.

These themes and symbols enrich Truman Capote’s narratives, weaving together the complexities of human emotions and experiences. They invite readers to reflect on their own lives and the universal human condition, making “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories” a timeless exploration of the heart and soul.

Writing Style and Tone

Truman Capote’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories showcases his remarkable writing style and tone, which contribute significantly to the mood and atmosphere of the collection. Let’s explore the distinctive features of Capote’s literary expression:

Style

Lyrical Prose: Capote’s prose often sings with a lyrical quality that brings a certain musicality to his narratives. This poetic approach adds depth and emotion, enveloping readers in the rich textures of his settings and characters.
Vivid Descriptions: His detailed descriptions paint vivid pictures of places, people, and emotions. From the bustling streets of New York to the quiet simplicity of rural life, Capote’s ability to evoke strong visual imagery immerses readers fully into his world.
Economy of Language: Despite the richness of his descriptions, Capote practices an economy of language, choosing words that carry weight and contribute to a deeper understanding of his themes and characters. This precision ensures that every sentence serves a purpose, either advancing the plot or enriching the narrative landscape.
Dialogue: Capote skillfully uses dialogue to reveal character and advance the story. The conversations between characters feel authentic and are often loaded with subtext, offering insights into their personalities and relationships without overt exposition.

Tone

Whimsicality with Depth: While there’s often a whimsical or light-hearted surface to Capote’s stories, a deeper, more poignant tone lies beneath. This contrast is particularly evident in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, where Holly Golightly’s carefree exterior masks her inner turmoil and longing.
Nostalgic and Reflective: Especially in “A Christmas Memory,” Capote adopts a nostalgic and reflective tone, looking back on the innocence of childhood and the simplicity of love and friendship. This tone invites readers to ponder their own pasts and the moments that have shaped them.
Melancholy and Bittersweet: Across his stories, there’s a pervasive sense of melancholy and the bittersweet nature of human existence. Capote doesn’t shy away from exploring loss, loneliness, and the ephemeral quality of happiness, imbuing his work with a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
Humor and Irony: Capote also weaves humor and irony into his narratives, providing levity and a sharp commentary on social norms and human behavior. This balance of light and dark elements adds complexity and richness to his storytelling.

Through his unique writing style and tone, Truman Capote invites readers into a world where beauty and sadness coexist, where characters are deeply flawed yet irresistibly compelling. His literary craftsmanship in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories not only entertains but also moves and challenges, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Literary Devices used in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories

Truman Capote’s mastery of literary devices plays a crucial role in the depth and resonance of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories.” Here are the top 10 literary devices Capote uses to enhance his storytelling:

Metaphor — Capote frequently uses metaphors to draw comparisons that reveal deeper truths about his characters and settings. For instance, referring to New York as a “diamond jungle” in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” highlights the city’s beauty, danger, and the survivalist nature of its inhabitants.
Simile — His use of similes adds vividness to his descriptions, making the imagery more relatable and striking. Describing Holly Golightly “like a wild animal” underscores her untamed nature and the sense of being caged by societal expectations.
Imagery — Capote’s rich imagery immerses readers in the sensory experiences of his world. The detailed description of the Christmas preparations in “A Christmas Memory” evokes smells, sights, and sounds, making the scene palpable.
Symbolism — Symbols, such as the birdcage in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” imbue the narrative with layers of meaning. The birdcage represents Holly’s fear of confinement and her desire for freedom.
Irony — Irony, both situational and verbal, adds complexity to Capote’s stories. Holly’s pursuit of wealth and stability, only to find herself more imprisoned, is an example of situational irony that critiques societal values.
Foreshadowing — Capote uses foreshadowing to build suspense and hint at future events. Early mentions of Holly’s troubled past hint at the unraveling of her New York life.
Flashback — Through flashbacks, Capote explores the backstories of his characters, enriching the narrative and deepening our understanding of their motivations and vulnerabilities.
Personification — Giving human qualities to non-human elements, such as the city or a guitar, personification enhances the emotional resonance of the settings and objects in Capote’s stories.
Alliteration — The use of alliteration adds a rhythmic quality to Capote’s prose, making his descriptions more memorable and engaging. For example, “the sweet smell of success” emphasizes the allure and the inherent deception of the American Dream.
Hyperbole — Exaggeration is used for effect, particularly in character descriptions or their expressions of emotion, underscoring the intensity of their experiences or feelings.

These literary devices are instrumental in creating the textured, nuanced narratives that define “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories.” Capote’s skilled use of language not only paints vivid pictures but also invites readers to look beyond the surface, exploring the complexities of the human condition.

Literary Devices Examples

Let’s dive into examples and explanations of the top 10 literary devices used by Truman Capote in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories, showcasing how each device enriches the narrative.

Metaphor

Example 1:

“She was not a girl who could be ‘won’ in the kinetic sense—she was proof against clever hands and tongues.” This metaphor compares Holly’s resilience to physical proof, emphasizing her emotional and psychological strength.

Example 2:

“The city was a diamond jungle.” This metaphor compares New York City to a jungle, highlighting its beauty, danger, and the survival instincts it evokes in its inhabitants.

Simile

Example 1:

“She moved like a cat.” This simile, used to describe Holly Golightly, emphasizes her grace, independence, and mysterious nature.

Imagery

Example 1:

The detailed account of making fruitcakes in “A Christmas Memory” vividly evokes the senses, painting a rich picture of the holiday season’s warmth and the loving bond between the characters.

Symbolism

Example 1:

The birdcage in Holly’s apartment symbolizes her fear of confinement and loss of freedom, contrasting with her seemingly carefree lifestyle.

Irony

Example 1:

Holly’s quest for freedom leads her into situations where she feels more trapped than ever, illustrating the irony of her pursuits and the societal constraints on women.

Foreshadowing

Example 1:

Early mentions of Holly’s troubled past foreshadow her eventual unraveling and departure from New York, hinting at the instability beneath her glamorous exterior.

Flashback

Example 1:

The narrator’s recollections of his past encounters with Holly provide depth to her character and illuminate the complexities of their relationship.

Personification

Example 1:

New York City is often personified, with its moods and movements mirroring the emotional landscapes of the characters, making the city itself a character in the narrative.

Alliteration

Example 1:

“Sylvia’s suitor’s silver spoon” in a story adds a musical quality to the prose, drawing attention to the social status and expectations surrounding the character.

Hyperbole

Example 1:

Holly’s descriptions of her plans and dreams often contain hyperbole, emphasizing her larger-than-life persona and her desire to escape the mundane.

These examples highlight Truman Capote’s adept use of literary devices to deepen the thematic content of his stories and enhance the reader’s engagement with the text. Through his skilled storytelling, Capote invites readers to explore the complexities of love, freedom, and identity in mid-20th century America.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories – FAQs

Q: Who is Holly Golightly?
A: Holly Golightly is the main character of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” She’s a young, charming, and enigmatic woman living in New York City, who navigates life on her own terms, often blurring the lines between socialite and survivalist. Holly is known for her complex personality, marked by a mix of independence, vulnerability, and a deep desire for freedom and belonging.

Q: What are the themes of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?
A: The novella explores themes such as the search for identity and belonging, the complexities of human relationships, freedom versus confinement, and the illusions versus realities of love. It also delves into social commentary on wealth, loneliness, and the pursuit of happiness in post-war America.

Q: How does Truman Capote use symbolism in his stories?
A: Capote employs symbolism to add depth and meaning to his narratives. For example, Tiffany’s jewelry store in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” symbolizes a haven or sanctuary for Holly Golightly, representing her quest for a place where she feels safe and at peace. The birdcage without a bird is another symbol, reflecting Holly’s fear of being trapped and her desire for freedom.

Q: What is the significance of the title “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?
A: The title reflects Holly Golightly’s ideal of finding a place where she feels happy and secure, akin to her feeling when looking at or thinking about Tiffany’s jewelry store. It symbolizes her search for a life that is as stable and comforting as the luxury and tranquility she associates with Tiffany’s.

Q: Can you describe the writing style of Truman Capote?
A: Capote’s writing style is marked by its lyrical quality, vivid imagery, and precise language. He masterfully blends humor and pathos, creating rich, complex characters and settings that are both enchanting and deeply reflective. His use of dialogue, metaphor, and symbolism enriches the narrative, inviting readers into the intimate worlds of his characters.

Q: How does “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” end?
A: “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” concludes with Holly Golightly leaving New York to escape her legal troubles and start anew in Brazil, despite not knowing what awaits her there. The narrator reflects on Holly’s impact and the nature of their friendship, learning years later that she may have been sighted in Africa, suggesting her restless spirit and ongoing quest for a place where she truly belongs.

Q: What makes “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories” unique?
A: This collection is unique for its exploration of themes related to human connection, identity, and the complexities of love and freedom through Capote’s distinctively elegant, witty, and emotionally resonant prose. Each story, while varied in setting and characters, captures the essence of Capote’s keen observations on life and relationships, making it a compelling read for a wide range of audiences.

Quiz

Question	A	B	C	D
What is the primary setting of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?	Chicago	New York City	Los Angeles	Paris
Who is the narrator of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?	A wealthy businessman	A young actress	An unnamed writer	Holly’s brother
What symbolizes Holly’s fear of being trapped?	A diamond ring	A pair of high heels	A birdcage	A lock and key
Which story involves making fruitcakes for Christmas?	“House of Flowers”	“A Christmas Memory”	“A Diamond Guitar”	“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
What is Holly Golightly’s real name?	Lula Mae Barnes	Sally Tomato	Lulamae Barnes	Dolores Gonzales
Where does Holly plan to go to escape her legal troubles?	Spain	Italy	Brazil	Mexico
Who helps Holly leave the country in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?	Rusty Trawler	Jose Ybarra-Jaegar	Doc Golightly	O.J. Berman
What is the main theme of “A Diamond Guitar”?	The pursuit of wealth	The impact of technology	The transient nature of human connections	Environmental conservation
In which story does Truman Capote explore the innocence and beauty of a childhood friendship?	“House of Flowers”	“A Diamond Guitar”	“A Christmas Memory”	“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
What literary device is predominantly used to describe New York City in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”?	Onomatopoeia	Metaphor	Hyperbole	Alliteration

This quiz tests comprehension of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Three Stories,” focusing on settings, characters, themes, and literary devices.

Exercise

Identify the literary devices used in the following paragraph from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”:

“New York was a city where you could be frozen to death in the midst of a busy street and nobody would notice. The pavements glittered with a frosty, diamond-like sparkle, and breath became a white vapor, a miasma that evaporated upon touching the multitude of rushing bodies. She walked through the crowds like a ghost, her face pale against the winter air, a solitary figure moving against a backdrop of indistinct chatter and the occasional blare of taxi horns.”

Answers

Metaphor: “New York was a city where you could be frozen to death in the midst of a busy street and nobody would notice.” – This metaphor highlights the coldness and indifference of the city, not just in temperature, but in human relationships as well.
Imagery: “The pavements glittered with a frosty, diamond-like sparkle, and breath became a white vapor, a miasma that evaporated upon touching the multitude of rushing bodies.” – This imagery vividly describes the physical coldness and visual aspects of the city in winter, enhancing the feeling of loneliness and isolation.
Simile: “She walked through the crowds like a ghost” – This simile compares the protagonist’s movement through the city to a ghost, emphasizing her feeling of invisibility and isolation among the masses.
Personification: “breath became a white vapor, a miasma that evaporated upon touching the multitude of rushing bodies” – By giving breath human-like qualities, this personification intensifies the image of the cold air mixing with human warmth, yet failing to connect truly.
Alliteration: “frosty, diamond-like sparkle” – The repetition of the “d” sound creates a musical quality to the description, drawing attention to the cold beauty of the scene.

This exercise helps students spot and understand the use of literary devices in text, enhancing their comprehension and appreciation of literary works.