How does the dual-timeline structure in The Masterpiece use juxtaposition and parallel moments in Clara’s and Virginia’s lives to draw connections between their individual struggles?

The Masterpiece critiques the arbitrary division between “fine art” and commercial illustration. Discuss this division as it manifests in the real world, drawing from both the novel and from examples where commercial art challenged the ideals of the fine art world.

Discuss how Levon Zakarian and Oliver Smith function as foils to one another. How does this contrast affect Clara on her journey?