The Symbolic Significance of Miss Brill's Fur Necklet and Ermine Toque

In Katherine Mansfield's short story 'Miss Brill', the fur necklet and ermine toque hold significant symbolic weight. They represent Miss Brill's identity and sense of self-worth. The fur necklet and toque are her 'small luxuries,' which make her feel important and dignified. These items also signify her loneliness, as she has no one to share her 'wealth' with. Finally, the tearing of her fur necklet symbolizes her feeling of brokenness and insecurity. The symbolism of these items emphasizes Miss Brill's loneliness and her tenacious pursuit of identity and self-worth.