In my opinion, the author of the thesis interpretated Olivias behavior wrong. I don’t think that she is in favour for this ritual, as she isn’t interested in the indian culture in general. She pretends to be, because she is looking for attention. Anybody, especially Douglas, is interested in her opinion. They seem to ignore her, because she isn’t involved in the indian, daily life. With her comment on the suttee, she provocates and gets the attention of the others. In addition to that, Olivia feels untended by Douglas. He is working the whole day and they havn’t much time to talk to each other.
So with her comment, she reaches her goal and is attended by the others and Douglas.
