Author
Gertrude Hall Brownell
1863-1961
Gertrude Hall Brownell (1863-1961) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Gertrude Hall Brownell
The Wagnerian Romances
"The Wagnerian Romances" by Gertrude Hall Brownell is a literary exploration of the operas of Richard Wagner, written in the early 20th century. The book aims to present the enchanting stories and profound themes originating from Wagner's libretti and scores, emphasizing their beauty and narrative depth beyond mere musical critique. It includes detailed accounts of notable works such as "Parsifal," "The Ring of the Nibelung," and "Tristan and Isolde," inviting readers to experience these operas as literary pieces in their own right. The opening of "The Wagnerian Romances" introduces readers to the ethereal world of Wagner's operas, starting with "Parsifal." Here, we meet Gurnemanz and the youthful Parsifal, who unwittingly engages with the themes of innocence and morality. The scene is set at the Castle of the Grail, exploring the backstory surrounding the theme of the Holy Grail and its guardian knights. The narrative unfolds with Gurnemanz recounting the tragic state of the Grail and the wounded king Amfortas while introducing Kundry, a complex character entangled in the past. The tension between longing and the quest for redemption is evident, suggesting a layered journey for Parsifal as he moves from ignorance to insight, highlighting both personal and spiritual growth—a theme that resonates throughout Wagner's works.
Aurora the Magnificent
"Aurora the Magnificent" by Gertrude Hall Browning is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in Florence, Italy, weaving the experiences of an American consular family, prominently featuring Mr. Jerome Foss, the consul, and his family. The novel explores themes of cultural encounters, the exploration of art and beauty, and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships in a foreign land. At the start of the novel, we meet Mr. Foss, who reflects on the beauty of Florence while walking home from his consulate. As he ponders the artistic inspirations of his surroundings, his thoughts shift to his family, who are engaged in their own social pursuits. The busy scene highlights the arrival of new American acquaintances, specifically Mrs. Aurora Hawthorne and her daughter, Miss Estelle Madison, who bring a blend of curiosity and modernization to the Italian setting. The development of their relationships with the Foss family sets the stage for interactions shaped by cultural differences and personal aspirations, hinting at the unfolding narrative of encounters that challenge social norms and perspectives.
The Hundred, and Other Stories
"The Hundred and Other Stories" by Gertrude Hall is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. This anthology examines themes of social class, human relationships, and childhood innocence through a series of vignettes set against the backdrop of a well-to-do society. The opening story revolves around Mrs. Darling, her lady's maid Mrs. Bonnet, and a hundred dolls designed for underprivileged children, encapsulating the contrasts of wealth and charity, coupled with the personal dynamics between the characters. The opening of the first story paints the scene of Christmas Eve in Mrs. Darling's household, where the mistress prepares for a festive evening while also grappling with her temperamental nature. As Mrs. Darling and her maid attend to last-minute tasks, the atmosphere shifts once the pair departs for the evening, allowing a sense of freedom to envelop the household. This shift catalyzes excitement in the maids and the kitchen staff, highlighting the contrasts between the lives of the upper class and working class. The stage is set for Tibbie, a poor child, to enter the story as she is led to Mrs. Darling’s room, where the “hundred” beautiful dolls await—a symbol of generosity amid the backdrop of a world where the lines of class are starkly drawn. Through this, the narrative touches on themes of hope and innocence as Cecille and the other characters navigate their wishes and dreams against a holiday spirit that seems to promise joy and wonder, yet carries deeper reflections on societal roles.
The Nowadays Girls in the Adirondacks : $b or, The deserted bungalow on Saranac Lake
"The Nowadays Girls in the Adirondacks: or, The Deserted Bungalow on Saranac…" by Gertrude Calvert Hall is a juvenile adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows four spirited friends—Sylvia Pursell, Rose Bancroft, Alice Harrow, and Hazel “Baby” Reed—who call themselves the Nowadays Club and set off for an Adirondack summer with their dignified chaperon, Mrs. Theodora Leigh Brownley. Woven through their vacation plans is Sylvia’s worry for her brother Roy, recovering at Saranac after a breakdown tied to a lost chemical formula, hinting at mystery alongside outdoor fun. Expect dances, canoeing, mishaps, and budding friendships as the girls make their way toward Saranac and the promise of a deeper intrigue. The opening of the story introduces the club, their lively personalities, and Sylvia’s plan for an Adirondack tour that will end near Roy’s sanitarium at Saranac Lake. A troubling telegram about Roy is softened by a later reassuring call, and the girls plunge into New York shopping and theater before departing with Aunt Theodora. On the train they befriend Jack Benton, detour for a sociable week in Syracuse, then reach Old Forge. There, a ballroom mishap sees Alice’s emerald ring lost and dramatically recovered, a canoe collision tips Alice into the lake (rescued by practiced oarsmen), and a golf drive knocks a passerby—but only his pride—before the girls try their luck fishing. Finally, they set off by guide-boat through the Fulton Chain toward Raquette Lake, stopping at the first carry as their journey—and the larger mystery—begins to take shape.