I agree 100% . I thought it was a sign of those time but as I read it became needlessly cruel. Even Hella's dependency feels dramatic and male identified. I get what you're saying 100%

It's next. Though I've heard great things about another country I can't seem to find it in my library or online

Exactly. Another visceral thing was disgust. James described it so well whether it of Jaques or his friend or was at Giovanni or David's own desires. It made everyone more human too me. How vulnerable and shameful they all felt