* Her Appearance: Grizabella is described as having "a faded coat" and a "weary, worn look." This physical deterioration is a constant reminder of her past mistakes, making her appear less desirable than the other cats.
* Her Past: Grizabella was once a beautiful and popular cat named "The Glamour Cat." However, she left the tribe and spent years wandering the "human world," leading to her downfall. This exile and her questionable past cause the other cats to view her with suspicion and disgust.
* Her Mistakes: While the specifics of Grizabella's actions are never fully revealed, it is implied that she betrayed the tribe and made choices that led to her ostracism. This makes her a symbol of the consequences of making poor choices, which the other cats fear repeating.
* Her Transformation: While the other cats initially see Grizabella as a symbol of what they want to avoid, her transformation at the end of the show reminds them of their own potential for redemption. Her transformation is not only about her physical change but also about her emotional growth and the possibility of being accepted again.
In essence, Grizabella is a tragic figure who represents the consequences of being ostracized and the hope of redemption. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for the other cats, reminding them of the importance of staying within the tribe and avoiding the pitfalls of the human world. However, her transformation ultimately offers a message of hope and the potential for forgiveness, even after making mistakes.