Subject
Nuns -- Fiction Books
Best books
Wilkie Collins
A Fair Penitent
"A Fair Penitent" by Wilkie Collins is a novella that first appeared in Charles Dickens' magazine, "Household Words," in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1857. It belongs to the genre of literary fiction and explores themes of redemption, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Set against the backdrop of 18th century France, it tells the story of a woman's journey from a life of pleasure as an actress to a devoted life as a Carmelite nun. The narrative centers around Mademoiselle Gautier, whose life experiences shape her profound conversion. Initially known for her beauty, talent, and tumultuous relationships with various influential men, Gautier's heart becomes particularly entangled with an actor named Quinault Dufresne. However, after experiencing heartbreak and disillusionment, she seeks change and retreats from her former life. Through her reflections and spiritual struggles, she documents her transformation, highlighting her deep emotional turmoil and her sincere pursuit of penitence and connection with God. Despite societal pressures and conflicts with her past—symbolized through rituals of flagellation and her decision to enter the convent—Gautier ultimately embraces a life of humility, service, and a steadfast commitment to her newfound faith.
Denis Diderot
La religieuse
"La religieuse" by Denis Diderot is a novel completed around 1780 and published posthumously in 1796. Inspired by a real case, it tells the story of Suzanne Simonin, a young woman forced by her parents to take religious vows and confined to a convent against her will. Through three different convents, she endures psychological torment, physical harassment, and unwanted advances while fighting for her freedom. The novel denounces religious institutions that imprison individuals and explores how enforced isolation corrupts human nature.
Ronald Firbank
The flower beneath the foot : $b being a record of the early life of St. Laura de Nazianzi and the times in which she lived
"The Flower Beneath the Foot" by Ronald Firbank is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the early life of St. Laura de Nazianzi, capturing the peculiarities of court life and the complex dynamics of royal families in a presumably fictional setting. Characters like the Queen, Countess Medusa Rappa, and the young Prince Yousef are introduced, hinting at an exploration of intrigue, personal desires, and societal expectations within the lavish yet oppressive world of nobility. At the start of the novel, the atmosphere is infused with anticipation as the royal court prepares for a festive occasion honoring King Jotifa and Queen Thleeanouhee. The opening reveals characters grappling with their emotional states amid courtly gossip, misgivings about imminent appearances, and the nuanced relationships among nobles, such as the young and spirited Mademoiselle de Nazianzi and her suitor Yousef. Their interactions provide a glimpse into the intricate social fabric of their world, setting the stage for a tale rich in irony, satire, and perceptive commentary on identity and ambition in a dazzling yet isolating environment.
E. M. Delafield
The pelicans
"The Pelicans" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of family, responsibility, and emotional struggle, focusing on the lives of two orphaned sisters, Rosamund and Frances Grantham, as they navigate their feelings after the death of their mother and adapt to their new lives. The narrative also delves into the dynamics of their new guardianship under Bertha Tregaskis, a capable yet somewhat overwhelming figure, and her family, highlighting a stark contrast between the sisters' previous upbringing and their new environment. At the start of the novel, we meet Lady Argent and her son, Ludovic, who discuss the recent death of Mrs. Grantham and how her children will be cared for. Bertha Tregaskis, a caring relative, decides to take in the orphaned girls, and tensions arise as Rosamund expresses resentment towards the transition. The opening section revolves around the complexities of the sisters' emotions, particularly Rosamund's defiance and struggle to retain her identity amidst the changes. The narrative captures the delicate nature of childhood grief and the challenges of adjusting to loss, all while introducing a cast of characters that influence the sisters' evolving lives.
Molly Elliot Seawell
The History of the Lady Betty Stair
"The History of the Lady Betty Stair" by Molly Elliot Seawell is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of post-Revolutionary France and Scotland, it chronicles the life of Lady Betty Stair, a spirited young woman caught in the turbulence of her time, as well as her connections with various characters from the French court in exile, including the charming De Bourmont and the scoundrel Bastien. As the narrative unfolds, the story delves into themes of loyalty, love, and the lingering shadows of past injustices. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Lady Betty Stair, a young Scottish noblewoman residing in Holyrood Palace during 1798, where she navigates the complexities of court life and her tumultuous emotions. The opening chapters establish her connection to her deceased brother, Angus Macdonald, and the mysteries surrounding his death, hinting at deeper betrayals and unresolved tensions. As Betty comes face-to-face with familiar figures like De Bourmont, who grapples with his own sense of honor and duty amidst the turmoil of war, the stage is set for a richly woven tale of romance and intrigue, ultimately exploring the cost of personal sacrifice against the fate of her family legacy.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
The White Sister
"The White Sister" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work revolves around the lives of Angela Chiaromonte, a young woman navigating her social standing after the sudden death of her father, and Giovanni Severi, a devoted suitor who is determined to marry her despite the obstacles they face, including her questionable legitimacy due to her parents’ unconventional marriage. Set against the backdrop of the societal norms and expectations of Italian aristocracy, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and identity. The opening of the story introduces us to the atmospheric setting of a painter's studio, where the portrait of Angela is being created by the esteemed artist Filmore Durand. We are introduced to Angela’s aunt, the Marchesa del Prato, who harbors discontent toward her niece and her romantic prospects. Following the completion of the portrait, a devastating call alters Angela's life irrevocably when she learns of her father's tragic death. The emotional turmoil ensuing from this loss shifts Angela's once certain existence into one of precarious uncertainty regarding her future and her place in society, leading to the exploration of her identity as she grapples with the revelation of her illegitimacy in the eyes of the law. The narrative then transitions from Angela's artistic representation to her intimate turmoil, setting the stage for her internal and external conflicts as she navigates her path in an unforgiving world.
John Ayscough
Mariquita: A Novel
"Mariquita: A Novel" by John Ayscough is a work of fiction likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mariquita, a young woman living on the prairie with her father, Don Joaquin, who is a horse and cattle rancher. The novel explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of the American West, as Mariquita navigates her role in the household and her relationship with her father while facing the challenges and distances of prairie life. The opening of the novel sets a vivid scene, immersing the reader in the expansive landscape of the prairie, described with poetic detail. It introduces Mariquita as a solitary figure, reflecting on her life after her mother's passing, and the expectations placed upon her by her father, a man who is emotionally distant and focused on work. The initial chapters portray Mariquita’s sense of devotion, a deep longing for connection to her mother’s Catholic faith, and the arrival of new characters—Mr. Gore and her cousin, Sarah Jackson—who disrupt the solitude of her existence. Their introduction hints at possible romantic tensions and the shifting dynamics in Mariquita’s life, making it clear that her world is on the brink of change. Overall, the beginning of "Mariquita" establishes a rich foundation for the exploration of Mariquita's inner life and her journey towards self-realization.
Charles Nodier
The Legend of Sister Beatrix
"The Legend of Sister Beatrix" by Charles Nodier is a narrative written in the early 19th century that combines elements of romance and religious themes. The story unfolds in the picturesque landscape near the Jura mountains and focuses on the life of Beatrix, a young nun. The book explores themes of love, devotion, sin, and redemption, reflecting the conflicts between earthly desires and spiritual commitments. The tale begins with the legend of a saintly widow known simply as "THE SAINT," who establishes a convent in honor of the Virgin Mary. Fast forward two centuries later, we meet Beatrix, the devoted custodian of the convent. Her life takes a transformative turn when she falls in love with a wounded nobleman, Raymond, challenging her vows and spiritual commitment to Mary. As she grapples with her desires and the consequences of abandoning her pious life, she experiences a tumultuous emotional journey that leads to a profound realization about the true nature of love and faith. Ultimately, she returns to her convent, seeking forgiveness and redemption from the Virgin, realizing that genuine love encompasses both earthly and divine connections. The story masterfully weaves together elements of devotion and human struggle, highlighting the complexity of faith and love.
Lauri Soini
Isä Johannes : $b kangastuskuvia keskiajan lopulta
"Isä Johannes : kangastuskuvia keskiajan lopulta" by Lauri Soini is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the late Middle Ages and follows the titular character, Father Johannes, as he navigates the complexities of life as a monk, dealing with themes of faith, duty, and personal relationships against the backdrop of societal and political upheaval. The opening of the work introduces us to the cloistered life of the monks at a Dominican monastery in Turku. Father Johannes is depicted during a communal meal with fellow monks, where discussions on recent events reflect the struggles of the time, including political tensions in the region. A notable interaction occurs between Johannes and Brother Hincerus, who proposes the monks take a stand on current political matters, which Johannes opposes in favor of focusing on spiritual pursuits. Through these dialogues, we learn about Johannes's internal struggles with his desires, particularly concerning the concept of womanhood and his visions of an ideal life, setting the stage for his personal conflicts as he embarks on a new chapter of his life as a parish priest in the surrounding countryside.
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