Question

As the chapter opens, the governess points across the lake and shouts, "She's there, she's there!" She is referring to Miss Jessel. Why is the governess excited to see the apparition at this time?

Answer 1

The governess is excited to see the apparition of Miss Jessel because it confirms her suspicions about supernatural activities and helps her protect the children she is responsible for.

Step-by-step explanation:

The governess in the opening chapter of the story titled 'The Turn of the Screw' is excited to see the apparition of Miss Jessel because she believes that Miss Jessel's presence confirms her suspicions about the supernatural activities happening at the estate. The governess believes that Miss Jessel's ghostly presence is proof that the previous governess, Miss Jessel, was engaging in an inappropriate relationship with the former valet, Peter Quint. The governess sees the apparition as an opportunity to protect her young charges, Miles and Flora, from the corrupting influences of Miss Jessel and Peter Quint.