Unlike Scarlett, Melanie fits to the Southern ideal that Ellen also embodies. In Scarlett’s relationships, she only pleases other people when it benefits her. Melanie, however, always tries to please everyone before she pleases herself, just like Ellen. Scarlett supposedly wants to be like Ellen one day, but her dislike of Melanie only makes this seem more unlikely. Scarlett thinks Melanie is kind because she hasn’t seen hardship, but Scarlett also hasn’t seen hardship. This suggests that Melanie selflessness is natural, just like Scarlett’s selfishness.