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Suffragists -- Fiction Books
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The sturdy oak : $b a composite novel of American politics by fourteen American authors
"The Sturdy Oak" by Samuel Merwin et al. is a composite novel of American politics published in the late 1910s. The work features contributions from fourteen American authors and highlights various perspectives on the political landscape of the time, particularly focusing on the contentious issue of woman suffrage. The narrative unfolds primarily through the lives of its characters, including George Remington, a politically ambitious young lawyer, his wife Genevieve, and Betty Sheridan, an ardent suffragist. The opening of the novel introduces us to Genevieve Remington as she navigates her new life as a wife to George, who is a candidate for District Attorney. George's political career begins to conflict with their personal lives, especially as the suffrage movement gains momentum. The story sets the stage for tensions and interactions among characters that embody the societal divide over women's rights, showcasing Genevieve's support for her husband while grappling with the implications of his staunch opposition to suffrage. As the narrative progresses, elements of familial expectations, personal ambition, and social activism intertwine, making it clear that the characters will face complex challenges related to the emerging feminist discourse in their community.
Gertrude Franklin Horn Atherton
Julia France and Her Times: A Novel
"Julia France and Her Times: A Novel" by Gertrude Franklin Horn Atherton is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces Julia Edis, a young debutante in the West Indies, and her formidable mother, Mrs. Edis, who is deeply entrenched in astrology. As Julia enters society, her fate becomes intertwined with that of Harold France, a young officer with a dubious reputation, raising questions about love, ambition, and the expectations placed upon women in society. The opening of the story sets the scene at a ball in St. Kitts, where Julia’s debut is marked by speculation regarding her mother’s astrological beliefs and the social dynamics of the island. As Mrs. Edis observes the attention Julia receives from Lieutenant France, her protective instincts clash with the ambitions she harbors for her daughter. The Captain's warnings about France's character create tension, as Julia herself remains blissfully oblivious to the danger and complexity of the adult world unfolding around her. This poignant and lush opening establishes Julia's innocence and contrasting reality of societal expectations, foreshadowing the journey she will undergo as she learns about love and the ambitions laid before her by her mother and the stars.
Elizabeth Robins
The Convert
"The Convert" by Elizabeth Robins is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Vida Levering, a beautiful and enigmatic young woman navigating the complexities of London high society, and explores her interactions with the children of Mrs. Freddy Tunbridge, along with her familial connections and social engagements. The narrative hints at deeper themes involving personal identity, societal expectations, and the challenges faced by women of that era. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Vida Levering, who visits the Tunbridge family shortly before a dinner party. As she enters the children’s night nursery, her presence brings joy and excitement to the young siblings, Sara and Cecil. The scene is rich with playful banter between the children and Vida, showcasing their lively personalities and the stark contrast between Vida’s sophistication and the children’s unreserved innocence. The opening establishes a warm domestic setting while subtly hinting at Vida’s deeper contemplations about her place within the rigid societal structures surrounding her. As Vida interacts with the children and prepares to join the adult world, we sense an undercurrent of tension regarding expectations and her own aspirations in life.
Stella Benson
I Pose
"I Pose" by Stella Benson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the experiences of an earnest yet hapless gardener who, at 23, navigates life's challenges and absurdities in a boarding house in London. Central themes appear to include the exploration of identity, personal aspirations, and the often farcical nature of social connections, as the gardener interacts with characters such as the pragmatic girl Courtesy and a passionate suffragette. The opening of the novel introduces the gardener, who experiences a series of minor yet comical crises, including the breaking of a boot-lace. He is portrayed as a deeply introspective figure, often lost in his own thoughts and theories about life, love, and art. When he encounters Courtesy, a somewhat oblivious yet kind young woman who helps him with his boot, it sparks a mixture of indignation and admiration in him. As the gardener embarks on a whimsical journey, he later crosses paths with a fervent suffragette who ignites both his curiosity and a new set of complications in their shared tale of exploration and growth. This initial chapter sets the stage for a blend of humor and social commentary, as the gardener fumbles through his interactions while crafting a narrative that reflects both his romantic ideals and the stark realities of his existence.
Brand Whitlock
Her Infinite Variety
"Her Infinite Variety" by Brand Whitlock is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces readers to Amelia and Vernon, a couple navigating the complexities of love and political ambition in a society where women are fighting for their rights, particularly the right to vote. The story appears to explore themes of societal expectations, personal conflict, and the evolving role of women in politics, providing a glimpse into their emotional struggles and aspirations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a tense interaction between Vernon and Amelia as they confront the implications of his commitments in the Senate and her disappointment over his unexpected departure. Amelia is excited about a planned dinner but feels sidelined when Vernon reveals he must return to Springfield for a conference. The reader begins to sense the budding complexities in their relationship, including Amelia's skepticism toward politics, Vernon’s political ambitions, and the arrival of Maria Burley Greene, a lawyer championing women's suffrage. This initial chapter hints at the conflict that will arise from Vernon’s political aspirations and the dynamics of his relationship with both Amelia and Maria as they contend with societal change.
Edwin Balmer
The mating impulse
"The Mating Impulse" by Edwin Balmer is a novel written during the early 20th century, likely reflecting the social climate surrounding women's rights and the suffrage movement. The book centers on the dramatic and often comedic escapades of Roberta Leigh, an American girl who becomes an ardent suffragist in Britain, engaging in militant protests that lead her into precarious situations. The author cleverly intertwines themes of love, rebellion, and the quest for gender equality within a captivating narrative. The story follows Andy Farnham, an American man in search of Roberta after hearing of her daring exploits in her fight for women's suffrage. His journey through the English countryside leads him to Stoketon, where he discovers Roberta's involvement in a destructive protest that ignites controversy. After narrowly avoiding arrest, the two devise a plan to escape to America aboard a ship while Roberta grapples with the implications of her actions. As they navigate their relationship amidst chaos, they come to recognize their feelings for each other, culminating in a dramatic conclusion that explores the consequences of passion and activism in a time of social upheaval.
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