In "The Portrait of a Lady," the character's extensive reading habits create an almost mythical aura around her. This reputation elevates her status, suggesting a depth of wisdom and experience, similar to that of a divine figure in a heroic narrative. It highlights how her intellectual pursuits set her apart from others, contributing to her enigmatic presence.

This imagery likens her to a goddess, which underlines the profound respect and admiration others hold for her. The notion of being enveloped in a "cloudy" essence indicates a mixture of intrigue and mystery, suggesting that her knowledge shapes perceptions of her character and adds complexity to her identity within the story.