The Duchess (film) intent, exaggeration or ill will" and "Keira Knightley's performance gains new depth – she not only perfectly portrays a witty and feminine Georgiana early in the film, but also a caring mother, and an abandoned woman later on. Also remarkable in this role is Knightley's ability to portray the strengths, weaknesses, and the internal hurdles of Georgiana, as well as her internal contemplation." Film Ireland writes "It is a slow movie but it is well acted with Knightley and Fiennes suited to their roles, especially Fiennes who gives a formidable and powerful performance." Cameron Bailey, the co-chair of the Toronto
Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire suggests that Briscoe was paid for the published work. However, it is thought more likely that Briscoe may have served as an intermediary between the Duchess of Devonshire and her publisher, so that the duchess could keep her anonymity. The duchess is said to have at least privately admitted to her authorship. "The Sylph" was a success and underwent four reprintings. "Memorandums of the Face of the Country in Switzerland" (1799) is often wrongly attributed to her. It was in fact written by Rowley Lascelles, based on a Swiss tour in 1794. One more piece was published in the last