Subject
Theater -- Fiction Books
Best books
Marjorie Benton Cooke
Bambi
"Bambi" by Marjorie Benton Cooke is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the main character, Francesca Parkhurst, affectionately known as Bambi, and her interactions with her father, Professor Parkhurst, and a young playwright named Jarvis Jocelyn. Bambi is a spirited young woman who challenges social norms and contemplates her future, particularly regarding love, ambition, and her unexpected marriage to Jarvis. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Bambi's dynamic personality as she engages in a spirited debate with her father about the meaning of success and the importance of a potential husband. She is portrayed as witty, independent, and fiercely protective of the unconventional Jarvis, whom she decides to marry out of a sense of duty to support him in his artistic pursuits. Their interaction reveals Bambi's strong will and her desire to forge a life filled with purpose, even as they navigate the complexities of their relationship and societal expectations. The beginning establishes themes of ambition, idealism, and the search for identity against the backdrop of early 20th-century societal norms.
Henry James
The Tragic Muse
"The Tragic Muse" by Henry James is a novel published in 1890. Nick Dormer abandons his promising political career to pursue painting, while Miriam Rooth struggles to become a great actress. Their artistic ambitions clash with romantic expectations and family obligations. Nick's relationship with the politically ambitious Julia Dallow unravels, while diplomat Peter Sherringham falls hopelessly in love with the charismatic Miriam. Set against English society and the theatrical world, this sprawling tale explores the price of artistic dedication and the conflicts between personal passion and conventional success.
Gilbert Cannan
Old Mole Being the Surprising Adventures in England of Herbert Jocelyn Beenham, M.A., Sometime Sixth-Form Master at Thrigsby Grammar School in the County of Lancaster
"Old Mole" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Herbert Jocelyn Beenham, referred to as "Old Mole," an unambitious schoolmaster at the Thrigsby Grammar School who leads a monotonous life. His world is shaken when a misunderstanding leads to a scandal that forces him to leave his position, ultimately setting him on a path of self-discovery and unexpected adventures. The opening of "Old Mole" introduces us to H. J. Beenham, a schoolmaster who has dedicated twenty-five years to Thrigsby but is well aware of his own lack of ambition and the limited reach of his life. His routine existence is abruptly derailed when he is accused of assaulting a young woman, Matilda Burn, on a train. Despite his genuine intentions to comfort her, Beenham's actions are misconstrued, leading to public humiliation and the possibility of losing everything he has known. The chapter sets the tone for his transition from the confines of an academic life to the chaos and uncharacteristic adventures of the theater world, where he encounters Matilda again and becomes entwined in her aspirations. This unexpected turn catalyzes a series of events that challenge both his identity and beliefs, pushing him into a new life filled with unpredictability.
Rupert Hughes
Clipped Wings
"Clipped Wings" by Rupert Hughes is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins in a suburban setting, introducing Mrs. Vickery, a mother returning from a shopping trip to find her children at home. However, a chilling twist ensues when she discovers a cacophony of chaos and what appears to be a tragic scene involving children, leaving the readers to wonder what calamity has struck her household. The opening of the narrative unfolds with Mrs. Vickery's frantic return home, where she is filled with dread as she hears the scream of a child and dashes to her living room only to stumble upon a bizarre theatrical arrangement of children ‘dead’ in play, led by a young girl named Sheila Kemble. In this surreal moment, Mrs. Vickery is torn between horror and confusion as the children engage in their playful charade, presenting a whirlwind of emotions and introducing Sheila, who appears to be a natural performer. The dynamics between the children and the adult's reactions offer a glimpse into the themes of childhood innocence, imagination, and the world of performative art that the story seeks to explore.
Clara Morris
A Pasteboard Crown: A Story of the New York Stage
"A Pasteboard Crown: A Story of the New York Stage" by Clara Morris is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces the Lawton family as they arrive at their new home, Woodsedge, an old estate that garners mixed reactions from the locals. Central to the story are the two daughters, Sybil and Dorothy, whose aspirations and challenges unfold against the backdrop of their family's financial struggles and the theatrical world. The opening of the novel sets the stage for the family's arrival and the community's curiosity about the Lawtons, who are seen as a curious spectacle in their decrepit new surroundings. John Lawton, the father, almost oblivious to the social implications of their situation, is accompanied by his spirited daughters and wife, Letitia. As they settle in, the girls begin to confront their new reality, balancing their hopes and dreams with the socio-economic limitations they face, foreshadowing deeper developments in their personal lives as they connect with the local stage and the enigmatic Claire Morrell. The tone and representation of family dynamics and societal commentary create an engaging introduction to their journey.
Rita Weiman
Footlights
"Footlights" by Rita Weiman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Elizabeth Parsons, a struggling vaudeville performer navigating the challenges of her career and personal aspirations while longing for recognition and connection. The story explores themes of identity, ambition, and the transformative power of the theater, juxtaposed against the backdrop of Elizabeth's humble beginnings and her encounters with significant figures within the entertainment world. The opening of the novel introduces a vivid depiction of backstage life in a small-town theater, where Elizabeth grapples with loneliness and disappointment after being relegated to perform in her hometown. As she prepares for her next act, her emotional turmoil is interrupted by a visit from an old friend, Lou Seabury, who represents a connection to her past. The atmosphere is charged with the anticipation of her performance, which she approaches with renewed determination upon realizing that she has someone in the audience—a source of motivation amidst her struggles. However, this interplay of comfort and insecurity demonstrates Elizabeth's internal conflict, setting the stage for her subsequent journey in pursuit of her dreams.
Robert Neilson Stephens
Tales from Bohemia
"Tales from Bohemia" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives explore the lives, struggles, and friendships of individuals within a close-knit community of aspiring writers and artists, primarily centered around Stephens himself and those he encountered in the literary world. This tapestry of stories captures the spirit of bohemian life, delving into themes of love, ambition, and the hardships of the creative process. The opening portion introduces readers to a pivotal friendship formed between the narrator and Robert Neilson Stephens, a young private secretary with literary aspirations. Their camaraderie develops against the backdrop of a newspaper office where they share their ambitions and thoughts on the literary scene of their time. As they engage in discussions about writers and artistic influences, the narrative hints at the tales to come, drawing on their experiences and the colorful personalities that populate their world. This engaging introduction sets the stage for a journey filled with humor, nostalgia, and the essence of artistic endeavor.
Booth Tarkington
Harlequin and Columbine
"Harlequin and Columbine" by Booth Tarkington is a novel set in the late 19th century, exploring the world of theater and the complexities of artistic expression. The story centers around Talbot Potter, a charismatic and successful stage actor, who navigates the challenges of rehearsing a new play while dealing with the personalities and dynamics of the theater world, including a promising young playwright and an intriguing understudy named Wanda Malone. The opening of the novel introduces us to Talbot Potter as he makes his way through the bustling streets of New York City, showcasing his serene yet self-aware demeanor amidst the distractions of the Fifth Avenue crowd. As the rehearsal unfolds, we meet Stewart Canby, the anxious playwright experiencing his first rehearsal, and we witness the tension that arises when Potter begins improvising lines and altering the script to fit his artistic vision. Canby grapples with the challenges of maintaining the integrity of his work as Potter's larger-than-life personality dominates the scene. The interplay of ambition, creativity, and human relationships sets the stage for a rich exploration of the theatrical world, hinting at conflicts and connections that will develop throughout the narrative.
Countess (Hélène) Barcynska
The Honey-Pot
"The Honey-Pot" by Countess Barcynska is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of London's theatrical scene, it primarily focuses on the lives of two young women, Maggy Delamere and Alexandra Hersey, as they navigate ambitions, hardships, and personal choices within the world of show business. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, morality, and the struggle for self-identity amidst societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Maggy, a chorus girl preparing for a crucial voice trial at the prestigious Pall Mall Theatre, highlighting her aspirations and the pressures of her lifestyle. While getting ready in her modest lodgings, she is optimistic yet realistic about her circumstances, contrasting her vivacity with the daunting nature of showbiz. As she enters the theater, we witness her interactions with an inexperienced girl named Alexandra, who also seeks a place in the chorus, revealing both girls’ hopes and fears surrounding their futures. The beginning sets the stage for a deeper exploration of their friendship, conflicting ambitions, and the impact of their choices against the harsh realities of their profession.
Elizabeth Von Arnim
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.
Fergus Hume
Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel (Sequel to Madame Midas.)
"Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Melbourne, Australia, featuring characters like Keith Stewart, a young man with literary aspirations, and Ezra Lazarus, a journalist. Their lives intersect with the complexities of the theatre scene and a woman known as "Caprice," who is both a celebrated actress and the mother of a child saved from danger by Keith. The opening of the novel introduces a dreary, rainy evening in Melbourne, emphasizing the discomfort felt by the characters but juxtaposing it with vibrant discussions between them. The beginning focuses on Keith and Ezra as they share insights into their ambitions and the women in their lives—particularly Caprice. The narrative presents their contrasting backgrounds: Keith's struggles and romantic ideals versus Ezra's more grounded perspective. As the two men contemplate their lives, a dramatic moment unfolds when Keith heroically saves a child, a pivotal event that brings him into the orbit of Caprice. This scene sets the stage for the exploration of themes like ambition, love, and the darker corners of society that the characters navigate.
Arnold Bennett
The Old Adam: A Story of Adventure
"The Old Adam: A Story of Adventure" by Arnold Bennett is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Edward Henry Machin, a man grappling with the mundane aspects of life despite recent financial success through stock market speculation. Throughout the opening chapters, Edward navigates complex relationships with his wife, Nellie, and their family, against the backdrop of his self-reflections on wealth and happiness. The beginning of the novel introduces Edward Henry Machin as he returns home, struck by a sense of melancholy despite a recent windfall from his investments. As he enters a domestic space filled with the trappings of both comfort and chaos, Edward reflects on the burdens of his life, such as perceived negligence from his wife and children. The narrative quickly escalates into a familial crisis when his son suffers a minor dog bite, which escalates Nellie's worries about potential rabies, prompting Edward’s internal conflict about duty and desire for escapism. This opening sets the tone for a blend of familial dynamics and self-exploration as Edward seeks both change and reassurance within his relationships and financial endeavors.
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