Author
Sarah Grand
1854-1943
Sarah Grand (1854-1943) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Sarah Grand
The Heavenly Twins
"The Heavenly Twins" by Sarah Grand is a novel written during the late 19th century. The book explores themes of gender, identity, and societal norms through the characters of Evadne and the mischievous twins, Angelica and Diavolo. As the story unfolds, it tackles the complexities of women's roles in a rapidly evolving society, offering a critique of traditional views and advocating for self-discovery and empowerment. The opening of the novel introduces Evadne, a sharp and inquisitive young woman, who is determined to understand the world around her. Raised in a conservative environment, she grapples with her father's outdated beliefs about women’s capabilities. The narrative sets the stage for her intellectual journey and the formative moments that shape her understanding of life. Notably, the twins—both endearingly chaotic—provide a contrast to Evadne's seriousness, illustrating the innocence and curiosity of childhood. Their antics and interactions with Evadne hint at broader societal discussions, making for an engaging exploration of personal growth and the challenges of conforming to societal expectations.
The Beth Book Being a Study of the Life of Elizabeth Caldwell Maclure, a Woman of Genius
"The Beth Book" by Sarah Grand is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the life of Elizabeth Caldwell Maclure, who represents the struggles and aspirations of women during this period, particularly focusing on themes of marriage, social expectations, and personal growth. The opening chapters introduce the audience to the challenges faced by Elizabeth’s mother, Mrs. Caldwell, as she navigates the difficulties of motherhood and domesticity while reflecting on her own unfulfilled dreams and desires. The opening of the narrative paints a vivid picture of Mrs. Caldwell’s state of mind as she prepares for the birth of her seventh child on a dreary June day. We witness her fatigue and struggle with both physical health and the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman and mother. The dynamic between Mrs. Caldwell and her husband reveals the tension in their marriage, highlighting the imbalance in their emotional and intellectual engagement. As the story progresses, the birth of Elizabeth (Beth) under dire circumstances is presented, foreshadowing the themes of resilience and individuality that will characterize her development throughout the novel. The characters and setting are crafted to illustrate the constraints of gender roles and the yearning for personal fulfillment, setting the stage for Beth's journey toward discovering her own identity amidst familial and societal pressures.
Ideala
"Ideala" by Sarah Grand is a novel written during the late 19th century, exploring themes of gender, individuality, and the societal expectations placed upon women. The story centers around the titular character, Ideala, who is depicted as a complex, introspective woman struggling with the limitations imposed by her marriage and the wider Victorian social norms. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Ideala through the eyes of a narrator who reflects on her enigmatic presence at a garden party. Ideala is portrayed as a character full of contradictions, admired for her charm, yet often misunderstood and labeled as cold or aloof. Despite her apparent indifference to societal trappings, she displays a deep, emotional engagement with life, having a striking ability to connect with others and a desire to uplift those around her. The opening chapters delve into her thoughts and interactions, suggesting a persona that is both aspirational and at odds with the dull mediocrity of those around her. As we begin to learn about her backgrounds, such as her struggles with her upbringing and the expectations of womanhood, it becomes clear that Ideala is on a quest not only for self-fulfillment but also for a deeper understanding of love and purpose in her life.