Even the most beautiful nymph is largely useless, and an ugly one would be nothing, less than nothing. She would never marry or produce children. She would be a burden to her family, a stain upon the face of the world. She would live in the shadows, scorned and reviled. But a monster,’ he said, ‘she always has a place. She may have all the glory her teeth can snatch. She will not be loved for it, but she will not be constrained either. So whatever foolish sorrow you harbour, forget it. I think it may be said that you improved her.’

A powerful commentary on women’s socially imposed purpose, symbolising how deviation from female norms produces both marginalisation and autonomy.