Subject
Circus performers -- Fiction Books
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Memoirs of a Midget
"Memoirs of a Midget" by Walter de la Mare is a novel published in 1921. The unnamed protagonist, Miss M., is a woman of extraordinarily small stature navigating a world not built for her. After her parents' deaths leave her alone at age twenty, she must forge her own path. She falls under the spell of the captivating but cruel Fanny Bowater, whose ambitions and manipulations lead to tragedy. Miss M. rejects the love of Mr. Anon, a dwarf who courts her, and becomes a living curiosity in the household of the wealthy Mrs. Monnerie.
D. H. (David Herbert) Lawrence
The Lost Girl
"The Lost Girl" by D. H. Lawrence is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the small industrial town of Woodhouse in England and revolves around Alvina Houghton, the daughter of a struggling merchant, as she grapples with societal expectations and her identity. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of women, individuality, and the constraints of society. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the declining fortunes of Alvina’s father, James Houghton, who once dreamed of becoming a successful merchant but now faces financial hardships. The narrative provides an insightful portrait of the family's dynamics, particularly focusing on the influences of Alvina's mother, an invalid, and her governess, Miss Frost. As Alvina grows into a young woman, she finds herself overshadowed by her father's failures and the societal pressures surrounding her, hinting at her struggle against the expectations of becoming another "old maid" in a society filled with unmarried women. The opening sets a tone that promises a deep exploration of Alvina's journey towards self-discovery and independence.
Margaret Mayo
Polly of the Circus
"Polly of the Circus" by Margaret Mayo is a Broadway play that opened in 1907. When a circus performer is injured and left behind in a small midwestern town, she recovers at the local minister's home. Their eleven-month time together leads to unexpected romance, but the disapproving townspeople threaten their future. Known for its dramatic love story and spectacular staging that recreated an actual circus complete with animals, the play became a Broadway success and later inspired two film adaptations.
Anonymous
A story of the sawdust: The pathetic history of "Old Props'" darling
"A Story of the Sawdust: The Pathetic History of 'Old Props' Darling" by Anonymous is a poignant fictional narrative that likely originates from the late 19th century. This story, which can be categorized as a work of sentimental fiction, delves into the life of a young circus performer named Patty, revealing her tragic existence and the experiences that shape her character within the circus environment. The narrative explores themes of innocence, love, betrayal, and the harsh realities faced by individuals in the entertainment industry. The story follows Patty, who is raised in the circus after the sudden death of her mother, a slack-wire performer. Under the protection of Old Props, a kind-hearted circus man, she grows up surrounded by the vibrant yet tumultuous world of the circus. As she matures into a talented equestrienne, Patty attracts the attention of a charming yet manipulative young man, leading her to unknowingly fall in love, resulting in the heart-wrenching consequences of her naivety. Ultimately, Patty finds herself devastated by heartbreak and illness, culminating in a tragic end that reflects the vulnerabilities and darker aspects of life in the circus, leaving her guardian, Old Props, to mourn for her lost potential and the heavy price of her love.
John D. (John Daniel) Barry
Mademoiselle Blanche: A Novel
"Mademoiselle Blanche: A Novel" by John D. Barry is a work of fiction set in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Jules Le Baron, a Parisian businessman who becomes captivated by Mademoiselle Blanche, a stunning acrobat performing at the famed Cirque Parisien. As Jules navigates his infatuation, the narrative explores themes of love, ambition, and the contrasting worlds of circus performers and the bourgeoisie. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jules, who enjoys the thrills of the circus while reflecting on his life in Paris and his experiences abroad. After a brief interaction with a waiter and a visit to the circus, he becomes entranced by Mademoiselle Blanche's breathtaking performance and beauty. Jules's admiration quickly turns into a passionate desire to know her personally, setting the stage for a complex relationship as he handles his feelings while also confronting social expectations and personal introspection. The opening lays a foundation of intrigue and emotional depth, showing how Jules grapples with his desires against the backdrop of his societal status.
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