beloved's obsession with setha

Connotations of Beloved’s Obsession

            Although it is never made clear, the rescued girl seems to be a manifestation of Sethe’s deceased infant daughter Beloved. As the new Beloved spends more time in the house, her obsession with Sethe becomes increasingly evident. As Sethe goes about her business, she seems to be “licked, tasted, eaten by Beloved’s eyes,” (68). This imagery suggests a relationship different than one of a mother and daughter. Furthermore, the guest “hovered, never leaving the room Sethe was in unless required and told to.” The progression from “licked” to “eaten” reveals a fast growing attraction to Sethe. In addition, the word choice suggests that Beloved’s eyes have tested and consumed her, which is both ambiguous and strange. The fact that Beloved “hovers” around her host is also eerie; it is similar terminology to that of a ghost. The ambiguous and strange description of Beloved’s obsession does not appear similar to that of a mother/daughter relationship. Despite appearing to be a reincarnation of Sethe’s daughter, the limited yet revealing description of this girl seems obsessive and bizarre.