Mary Hartwell Catherwood
Lazarre
"Lazarre" by Mary Hartwell Catherwood is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the aftermath of the French Revolution and centers around the character of Lazarre Williams, a young man of mixed heritage, whose identity and past are shrouded in mystery. The novel explores themes of class, identity, and the intersection of different cultures, as Lazarre navigates his position between his Native American upbringing and the courtly expectations of European nobility. The beginning of the novel introduces us to the intriguing world of London in 1795, where young Eagle de Ferrier encounters a silent boy, who is revealed to be the lost Dauphin of France, a child once thought dead. As she interacts with him, we witness the prejudices and tensions between the French émigrés and the English, particularly through the lens of two British women who express disdain for the French. The narrative then shifts to provide a glimpse of Lazarre's awakening, detailing his consciousness amid the conflicting cultures and identities he embodies. As he grapples with his scars and past, the opening sets the stage for a profound exploration of his journey towards discovering who he truly is amidst the chaos of his heritage.