why did maximum tell his wife about Abacus death from the novel Rebecca
Answers
After the revelation about Rebecca’s death, the narrator is able to take her place as mistress of Manderley. The most significant evidence of this change is her use of her married name: “I am Mrs. de Winter now.” Although her given name is still unknown, the narrator is no longer without an identity. She has overcome Rebecca’s influence and assumed her rightful position as Mrs. de Winter. Moreover, the narrator is not only Maxim’s wife in name: because of their breakthrough in communication, she is now also an equal partner in the relationship.
The narrator’s acceptance of her married name also serves as a critique of Rebecca’s sexual independence and immorality. Throughout the novel, Rebecca’s identity is primarily quantified by her first name, rather than her married title. Even Du Maurier chose to title the novel “Rebecca” instead of “Mrs. de Winter” or “the first Mrs. de Winter.” The connection to her first name demonstrates her independence and personal strength, but it also suggests that she had no true connection with anyone other than herself. In fact, the only person with whom she has a real relationship is Mrs. Danvers, and it is no coincidence that Rebecca assumes Mrs. Danvers’ name when she visits Dr. Baker. While the narrator’s decision to assume the identity of Mrs. de Winter may seem to prove her dependence on Maxim, but it also reveals her connection with those around her and her place in the society of Manderley.
At this point, the narrator’s part in the conflict of the novel is finished; she has won her battle against Rebecca. The narrative structure now focuses on Maxim and his personal struggle against Rebecca. Now that the reader understands the source of Maxim’s anguish and guilt, he becomes a much more sympathetic character, especially in terms of his relationship with the narrator. By revealing the failings of his marriage with Rebecca and his selfish concern for the state of Manderley, Maxim becomes more human in the eyes of the reader.
Interestingly, as the investigation into Rebecca’s death begins, Maxim no longer appears to have any desire to keep the murder a secret. His only reason for maintaining the pretense is the realization that he would be separated from the narrator, just as they are beginning their marriage as equals. However, Maxim has lived with the guilt of his actions for so long that he no longer feels capable of keeping his secret. Just as the narrator reached a breaking point in her battle with Rebecca before the rockets hit the cove, Maxim is at his own breaking point, faced with the decision to continue pretending or confess his guilt and let Rebecca win.
When Maxim refuses to give blackmail money to Jack Favell and calls Colonel Julyan, he is in essence making the decision to let the truth come out. Nevertheless, by making himself a willing sacrifice, Maxim ultimately undercuts Rebecca’s power over him. Since her death, Rebecca has maintained control over him, determining his choices and actions, even in his marriage with the narrator. By calling Colonel Julyan himself, Maxim takes control of his life and ensures that he will no longer be crippled by the fear that someone will find out the truth about Rebecca.