Question

Why might Winterbourne be envious of Daisy?

Answer 1

 I think he is jealous of her natural innocence and love for life. Daisy seems unencumbered by social constraints imposed by "proper" society.

Answer 2

This question is incomplete. Its full version is:

Why might Winterbourne be envious of Daisy?

1. She is wealthier than he is.
2. She has a great deal of youthful optimism.
3. She is more attractive than Winterbourne.
4. She can successfully manipulate others.

The right option is number 2.

Frederick Winterbourne might be envious of Daisy because she has a great deal of youthful optimism.

Explanation:

In the play "Daisy Miller" by Henry James, Winterbourne meets a young American girl whose name is Daisy Miller. Even though she seems to be crass and uncultivated, she is very spontaneous and optimistic what makes Winterbourne feel resentful since he is rather cynical and world-weary.