Author
Elizabeth Von Arnim
1866-1941
Elizabeth Von Arnim (1866-1941) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Elizabeth Von Arnim
The Enchanted April
"The Enchanted April" by Elizabeth von Arnim is a novel published in 1922. Four dissimilar women escape their dreary lives in 1920s England for a month-long holiday at a medieval Italian castle. Mrs. Arbuthnot and Mrs. Wilkins struggle with unhappy marriages, Lady Caroline seeks refuge from shallow London society, and elderly Mrs. Fisher clings to her Victorian past. Despite initial tensions, the tranquil Mediterranean setting begins to work its magic on each woman, offering possibilities for transformation and renewal.
Elizabeth and Her German Garden
"Elizabeth and Her German Garden" by Elizabeth von Arnim is a novel published in 1898. Written as a year's diary, it follows Elizabeth as she cultivates a garden on her husband's Pomeranian estate while gently satirizing German bourgeois society and those around her. This semi-autobiographical work combines observations on nature with humor drawn from Elizabeth's gardening misadventures and unconventional views on life. Originally published anonymously to protect the author's identity, it became an immediate bestseller with twenty-one reprints by 1899.
The Pastor's Wife
"The Pastor's Wife" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ingeborg, the daughter of a bishop, who finds herself yearning for freedom and adventure outside the confines of her structured life. Following a dental visit, she embraces the exhilaration of solitude in London, which leads her to impulsively join an excursion to Switzerland, where her life takes an unexpected turn. At the start of the book, Ingeborg experiences a vivid awakening to life beyond her duties as her father's assistant. Fresh from a tooth extraction, she is filled with elation and a sense of possibility, free from the burdens of her familial expectations. This leads her to the thrilling decision to join an excursion that will transform her mundane existence. During the trip, she encounters Herr Dremmel, a German pastor, with whom conversations about life, duty, and love unfold. This initial encounters give way to a deeper connection, culminating in an unexpected proposal that introduces tension between personal desires and familial obligations, setting the stage for a story about self-discovery, the constraints of societal norms, and the complexities of romantic relationships.
The caravaners
"The Caravaners" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the travels of Baron Otto von Ottringel and his wife, Edelgard, as they embark on an unconventional holiday in a caravan across England. The story explores themes of marital dynamics, societal expectations, and the charm of an adventurous life in the countryside, with the couple navigating their interactions with various eccentric characters they encounter along the way. At the start of the novel, the Baron and Edelgard are feeling confined and bored in their flat as summer approaches. They decide to plan a series of short trips to visit friends in the countryside in anticipation of their more extravagant silver wedding journey to Italy. During their visits, however, they are encouraged by Frau von Eckthum, a lively acquaintance, to consider a different kind of adventure—caravanning in England. Their discussions and planning lead to the borrowing of a caravan, and as they prepare for this new and whimsical journey, the narrative unveils their anxieties and excitement about stepping into a bohemian lifestyle—setting the stage for humorous and heartfelt experiences throughout their travels.
Introduction to Sally
"Introduction to Sally" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the characters Mr. and Mrs. Pinner and their daughter, Sally, exploring themes of beauty, anxiety, and familial dynamics. As Mr. Pinner grapples with his daughter’s extraordinary beauty and the complications it brings, we witness the unfolding of Sally’s life as she navigates her emerging identity amidst parental concerns and societal expectations. The opening portion introduces us to Mr. Pinner, a man driven by respectability and fear, who struggles with the challenges of his marriage and the beauty of his daughter, Sally. Despite initial hopes for parental stability, Mrs. Pinner's death thrusts the responsibility of raising Sally onto Mr. Pinner, who reacts by attempting to shield her from unwanted male attention that her beauty attracts. As Sally grows into a stunning young woman, her parents' fears intensify, leading to their decision to relocate in hope of achieving a quieter life. However, their troubles are exacerbated by the inevitable consequences of Sally's beauty, ultimately leading us to the exploration of familial love, anxiety, and the desire for autonomy.
The Solitary Summer
"The Solitary Summer" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a reflective novel written during the early 20th century. It explores themes of solitude, nature, and personal growth through the eyes of its main character, who yearns to spend an entire summer alone, immersing herself in her garden and contemplative solitude. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist's desire for solitude, conveyed through a conversation with the "Man of Wrath," who critiques her plans for a solitary summer. She envisions a life removed from societal expectations, where she can enjoy the beauty of nature and reflect on her life. As she imagines her days spent in the garden, surrounded by the scents and sights of spring, the narrative captures her introspective thoughts and her interactions, detailing her past struggles with gardening and her longing for deeper self-connection. The beginning sets a whimsical tone, promising a journey of self-discovery amid nature's splendor.
Love
"Love" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of romance, longing, and societal expectations as it follows the blossoming attachment between Christopher Monckton, a free-spirited young man, and Catherine Cumfrit, a widow with a complex past. Their relationship unfolds in the context of shared experiences at the theater, gradually revealing deeper emotional connections and personal struggles. At the start of the novel, the protagonists meet at a performance of "The Immortal Hour." Initially unaware of each other's presence, Christopher becomes captivated by Catherine during her multiple visits to the theater. As they begin to talk, Christopher learns that Catherine is a widow, and his attraction deepens as he imagines a connection that transcends their brief encounters. Their conversations are marked by humor and affection, yet underlying tensions arise from Catherine's previous marriage and the lingering presence of her late husband, George. The opening chapters set up a tender exploration of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability, capturing the essence of intimate connections in an evolving society.
The Princess Priscilla's Fortnight
"The Princess Priscilla's Fortnight" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written during the early 20th century. It explores the life of Princess Priscilla of Lothen-Kunitz, a young royal who feels suffocated by her noble duties and yearns for freedom. As she grapples with the expectations imposed upon her by her royal lineage, the story promises to delve into themes of self-discovery and rebellion against societal norms. The opening of the novel introduces Princess Priscilla, painting a vivid portrait of her beauty and character while setting the stage for her internal conflict. Raised in the lush and picturesque Grand Duchy of Lothen-Kunitz, she has lived a life dictated by strict etiquette and expectations that clash with her poetic soul. Here, we meet Fritzing, the librarian who fosters Priscilla's dreams of escape and independence. As Priscilla reveals her desire to abandon her royal life for a simpler existence, the story unfolds with comical undertones, highlighting her naive yet earnest plans to run away, embark on a new life in England, and experience the freedom she so desperately seeks. The early chapters set a tone that balances humor with a critique of the constraints of aristocratic life while establishing the relationships that will be pivotal to her journey.
Fräulein Schmidt and Mr. Anstruther
"Fräulein Schmidt and Mr. Anstruther" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a romantic novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the emotional journey of Rose-Marie Schmidt, a young woman living in Jena, as she grapples with her feelings for Roger Anstruther, an Englishman who has spent a year in her family’s home learning German. With its epistolary format, the book explores themes of love, societal expectations, and personal identity, capturing Rose-Marie's introspective reflections and growing awareness of her feelings. At the start of the narrative, Rose-Marie writes a series of letters to Roger following their recent romantic engagement, filled with her thoughts, insecurities, and revelations about love. Her letters oscillate between joy and doubt as she contemplates the implications of their engagement, particularly regarding her lack of financial means and the weight of her step-mother's disapproval. Throughout these letters, Rose-Marie vividly describes her surroundings in Jena, her feelings of awakening to love, and her fears of societal judgment, revealing her internal struggle with self-worth and her uncertainty about their future together. The opening portion effectively sets the stage for a deeper exploration of their relationship and the challenges they face as they navigate their worlds.
The Benefactress
"The Benefactress" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds through the life of Anna Estcourt, a beautiful yet contemplative young woman entangled in her family's financial struggles and societal expectations. As she navigates her dependent life under the care of her wealthy sister-in-law, Susie, Anna grapples with her desire for independence, or lack thereof, and contemplates the triviality of existence. The opening of the novel introduces Anna at the age of twenty-five, who begins to question the value of her life filled with parties and social obligations as she becomes increasingly disillusioned. Much of her dissatisfaction stems from her sister-in-law's relentless reminders of their dependence on her wealth. Anna's complex feelings about love, marriage, and autonomy are further complicated by her brother Peter's indifferent philosophy and their family dynamics, which illuminate her struggles with identity and societal roles. It becomes apparent that her whimsical aspirations for finding independence clash with the expectations of those around her, setting the stage for Anna’s eventual confrontation with the opportunities and responsibilities that come with her impending inheritance.
The Adventures of Elizabeth in Rügen
"The Adventures of Elizabeth in Rügen" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a travel-themed novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Elizabeth, the central character, as she embarks on a journey around the picturesque island of Rügen. The book explores themes of nature, independence, and the joys of exploration, reflecting Elizabeth’s desire for freedom and a connection with the world around her. The opening of the novel introduces Elizabeth's quest to walk around the island of Rügen, highlighting her frustration at the reluctance of her friends to join her on this refreshing adventure. Instead of walking, she finds herself driving with her maid Gertrud, embarking on what promises to be a whimsical and scenic journey. The chapter details Elizabeth's encounters with various characters, her appreciation of nature, and the delightful distractions she finds along the way. From contemplating the beauty of Rügen's landscapes to experiencing the quirks of local life, the opening sets the tone for Elizabeth's adventures and establishes her character as someone deeply in tune with her surroundings and determined to embrace life.
Vera
"Vera" by Elizabeth von Arnim is a novel published in 1921. Based on the author's disastrous second marriage, it follows naive Lucy Entwhistle as she marries widower Everard Wemyss. His mansion is haunted by memories of his dead first wife, Vera, whom Lucy suspects committed suicide. She gradually realizes her husband demands total intellectual and emotional servitude. Unlike von Arnim's lighthearted romantic works, this dark psychological study anticipates "Rebecca" and explores a young woman's entrapment by a pathologically narcissistic spouse.
In the Mountains
"In the Mountains" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows an unnamed female protagonist who returns to her mountain home after years away, seeking solitude after experiencing profound losses due to war. The themes of loneliness, healing, and the beauty of nature permeate her reflections as she grapples with her painful memories while attempting to rejuvenate her spirit in the peaceful mountain setting. The opening of the book presents the protagonist's return to her mountain retreat, where she expresses a deep sense of weariness and solitude. She lies on the grass, contemplating the beauty surrounding her—the brilliant colors of the delphiniums, the expansive sky, and the gentle quietness of nature—while grappling with feelings of loss and emptiness. The narrative reveals her thoughts about her previous life filled with love and companionship, now stripped away. As days pass, she observes the simple yet profound beauty of her surroundings, reflecting on her painful memories and the arduous path to healing, while also experiencing moments of hope and the desire to reconnect with joy.
The April Baby's Book of Tunes with the story of how they came to be written
"The April Baby's Book of Tunes" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a charming children's book written in the early 20th century. It combines delightful storytelling with illustrations, specifically those by Kate Greenaway. The narrative revolves around the adventures of three little girls named April, May, and June, focusing on their playful experiences and whimsical interactions in their German home, emphasizing themes of family, creativity, and the joys of childhood. The story begins in a winter setting as the sisters find themselves snowed in before Easter, engaging in various playful activities while their mother tries to keep them entertained. In a moment of inspiration, the mother decides to create tunes for popular nursery rhymes, which become a source of excitement and joy for the children. Each rhyme unfolds through delightful storytelling, showcasing the children's innocent banter and imaginations around characters and scenarios like Polly Flinders, Curly Locks, and Mary Quite Contrary. As the narrative progresses, the family’s bonds are strengthened, and the children's playful nature is beautifully captured as they explore their environment and engage in creative play, ultimately celebrating the special relationships within their family.
Christopher and Columbus
"Christopher and Columbus" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows twin sisters Anna-Rose and Anna-Felicitas, who are refugees navigating the tumultuous seas of war and identity as they journey from Europe to America. They are portrayed as characters caught between worlds, as they grapple with their mixed heritage and the loss of their mother, seeking their place in a new land. The opening of the novel establishes a poignant and whimsical tone as the twins, with their rich inner worlds and vivid imaginations, take on the personalities of Christopher Columbus and his crew. They are aboard the American liner St. Luke, leaving behind a gray, rainy England, feeling vulnerable and uncertain about the future. Both characters introduce their distinctive personalities: Anna-Rose is fiercely protective and vivacious, while Anna-Felicitas has a dreamy disposition that often leads her into contemplations about life. Through their dialogue and interactions, we see a blend of humor and melancholy as they cope with their new reality, the shadows of their past, and their hopes for America.
Christine
"Christine" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is an epistolary novel published in 1917 under the pseudonym "Alice Cholmondeley." Presented as letters from an English girl studying in Germany to her mother, it chronicles the mounting tensions from May to August 1914 as World War I approaches. Christine desperately attempts to flee Germany for neutral Switzerland, but tragedy strikes before she can reach safety. Initially marketed as authentic correspondence, the novel became powerful anti-German propaganda, though its true authorship remained a closely guarded secret.