Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses mental illness, substance use, gender discrimination, and animal death.

The Akadimia Prize symbolizes the allure of ambition and the complexities of success within Jane and John’s relationship. Early in the novel, John expresses his desire to win the prize, imagining a year spent in Athens, Greece, living in luxury and creating art: “He wanted to win the Akadimia Prize, which would take him to Athens, Greece, for a year, to live in a beautiful villa and work in an airy studio and eat food prepared by chefs” (5). However, it is Jane, not John, who ultimately receives the honor. This dynamic sets the tone for their relationship, highlighting John’s insecurities and resentment toward Jane’s accomplishments.

The prize represents not only professional achievement but also the imbalance in their marriage, as Jane feels obligated to temper her excitement to protect John’s ego. When John’s behavior during the fellowship ceremony embarrasses Jane, it becomes clear that his support for her success is performative rather than genuine. The Akadimia Prize underscores the theme of Deception in Marriage, illustrating how societal expectations and gender roles fuel John’s jealousy and undermine Jane’s sense of accomplishment.