Subject
Women -- Social conditions -- Fiction Books
Best books
Wilkie Collins
The Evil Genius: A Domestic Story
"The Evil Genius: A Domestic Story" by Wilkie Collins is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, set within the intricate social dynamics of the time. This story delves into the themes of intrigue, morality, and domestic life, primarily focusing on the character Roderick Westerfield, a man accused of serious crimes, and his wife, Mrs. Westerfield, as they navigate the treacherous waters of societal expectations and personal betrayal. At the start of the novel, the story opens with a courtroom scene where jurors deliberate on the case against Roderick Westerfield, charged with wrecking a ship and stealing valuable diamonds. As the jurors voice their opinions, it becomes evident that their discussions are laced with humor, irony, and personal quirks. The narrative transitions to Mrs. Westerfield, who is presented as a showy woman, seemingly detached from her daughter during the trial. After the trial concludes with a guilty verdict, we witness the emotional toll this takes on the couple, particularly Roderick as he faces his impending fate. The beginning sets an engaging, complex stage for the unfolding drama centered on deception, familial relationships, and the consequences of personal choices.
David Graham Phillips
The Conflict
"The Conflict" by David Graham Phillips is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows Jane Hastings, a young woman returning home after years of education and travels, who grapples with the societal expectations of marriage and her desire for a meaningful existence. In a world dominated by gender roles and the pressure to conform, Jane is restless, questioning her purpose beyond becoming a devoted wife. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Jane's internal struggle as she reflects on her upbringing and the societal norms that dictate women's lives. Jane encounters David Hull, who declares his love and proposes marriage, but she is repulsed by the idea, feeling that it would mean giving up her identity. As their conversation unfolds, Jane expresses disdain for societal expectations and her ambition for something greater. She is also drawn to the radical ideas of Victor Dorn, a man mentioned by Hull, representing a different, more revolutionary perspective on life and politics. This tension between traditional societal roles and the pursuit of personal fulfillment forms the crux of Jane's conflict, suggesting that her journey will involve challenging the status quo and seeking her own identity in a restrictive world.
Sarah Grand
The Beth Book Being a Study of the Life of Elizabeth Caldwell Maclure, a Woman of Genius
"The Beth Book" by Sarah Grand is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the life of Elizabeth Caldwell Maclure, who represents the struggles and aspirations of women during this period, particularly focusing on themes of marriage, social expectations, and personal growth. The opening chapters introduce the audience to the challenges faced by Elizabeth’s mother, Mrs. Caldwell, as she navigates the difficulties of motherhood and domesticity while reflecting on her own unfulfilled dreams and desires. The opening of the narrative paints a vivid picture of Mrs. Caldwell’s state of mind as she prepares for the birth of her seventh child on a dreary June day. We witness her fatigue and struggle with both physical health and the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman and mother. The dynamic between Mrs. Caldwell and her husband reveals the tension in their marriage, highlighting the imbalance in their emotional and intellectual engagement. As the story progresses, the birth of Elizabeth (Beth) under dire circumstances is presented, foreshadowing the themes of resilience and individuality that will characterize her development throughout the novel. The characters and setting are crafted to illustrate the constraints of gender roles and the yearning for personal fulfillment, setting the stage for Beth's journey toward discovering her own identity amidst familial and societal pressures.
Madame de (Anne-Louise-Germaine) Staël
Delphine
"Delphine" by Madame de Staël is a novel published in 1802. Written in epistolary form, it explores the constraints on women's freedom in aristocratic society during the French Revolution. The story follows Delphine d'Albémar, a young widow who arranges a marriage between her cousin Matilde and Léonce de Mondoville—only to fall tragically in love with Léonce herself. The controversial novel, which addresses divorce, emigration, and political liberalism, prompted Napoleon to exile the author from Paris.
Helen Reimensnyder Martin
Her Husband's Purse
"Her Husband's Purse" by Helen Reimensnyder Martin is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the fictional Pennsylvania town of New Munich, it delves into the intricacies of social dynamics, familial relationships, and societal expectations through the lens of Daniel Leitzel, a wealthy bachelor, and his controlling sisters, Jennie and Sadie. The story explores themes of love, approval, and the true cost of wealth as the sisters grapple with Daniel's unexpected engagement to a Southern woman named Margaret. The opening of the narrative introduces the sudden and shocking betrothal of Daniel Leitzel, which sends ripples of disbelief and concern through his two spinster sisters. As they react to the news, their conversations reveal their deep-rooted ambitions, possessiveness, and anxieties about a stranger marrying into their wealthy family. Their concern revolves around maintaining control over Daniel's fortune and the correct social standing that such a marriage might challenge. Through sharp dialogue and character exploration, the reader is drawn into a world where money and social perception dictate relationships, setting the stage for the unfolding drama surrounding marriage and family loyalty.
Zona Gale
A Daughter of the Morning
"A Daughter of the Morning" by Zona Gale is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores the life of the protagonist, Cosma Wakely, a young woman grappling with her identity, family expectations, and her desire for independence. As she navigates her challenging home life and societal constraints, she seeks to discover her own path, leading her to escape to the city in search of a job and a new life. The opening of the novel introduces us to Cosma's turbulent life at home with her parents and the oppressive atmosphere of farm life. She reveals her frustrations with her mother's complaints and her father's gruff demeanor while dreaming of writing a book. Characters such as Mis' Bingy and Luke hint at the struggles women face in a patriarchal society, as Mis' Bingy endures an abusive marriage, and Luke represents societal pressure on women to marry. When events lead Cosma to help Mis' Bingy escape her abusive husband, Cosma ultimately decides to leave her family and seek a new life in the city, driven by a desire for autonomy and self-discovery. The beginning sets the stage for her transformational journey, highlighting her internal conflicts and the harsh realities facing women in her society.
Augusta J. (Augusta Jane) Evans
Infelice
"Infelice" by Augusta J. Evans is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a small town, largely centered around a mysterious young woman, Minnie Merle (now claiming to be Mrs. Laurance), who arrives at the parsonage of Dr. Peyton Hargrove seeking the marriage license he once held, which symbolizes her claim to a legitimate identity and her child. The overarching themes explore the entangled relationships and social standing of women in the face of familial and societal pressures, as well as the struggles for identity and justice. The opening of the book introduces a stormy January night when Minnie Merle, veiled and troubled, visits Dr. Hargrove’s home. She reveals her connection to him through a past marriage ceremony he performed, expressing distress over the lack of recognition she faces from her husband and his family. As Mrs. Hargrove listens, she empathizes with Minnie’s sorrow while observing her reticence regarding the details of her life. The chapter concludes with Dr. Hargrove grappling with the implications of Minnie’s claims and the mystery surrounding her situation, setting the stage for a narrative steeped in intrigue and emotional depth.
Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant
The Mystery of Mrs. Blencarrow
"The Mystery of Mrs. Blencarrow" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the intriguing life of Mrs. Blencarrow, a widow and mother, who is surrounded by a comfortable yet modest lifestyle. As her character unfolds, she grapples with perceptions from her community and the mysteries of her past that seem to hint at deeper secrets, making the narrative ripe with suspense and emotional complexity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the idyllic setting of Blencarrow House, where Mrs. Blencarrow is depicted as a respected yet enigmatic figure in her community. The opening chapters describe her household dynamics, featuring her five children and the management of domestic life. However, beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect existence lies a tangled web of gossip and speculation about her past that captivates the local community. Meanwhile, the arrival of Christmas festivities brings a sense of gaiety, but also sets the stage for unexpected encounters that hint at tensions to come, especially concerning the young lovers Kitty and Walter, whose innocent flirtation leads to troubling revelations about the true nature of Mrs. Blencarrow's history.
Jonas Lie
Perhe Giljellä: Kuvaus neljänneltä vuosikymmeneltä
"Perhe Giljellä: Kuvaus neljänneltä vuosikymmeneltä" by Jonas Lie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a rural mountain village, focusing on the daily life of the Jäger family, including the captain, his wife, and their children. Central to the narrative are the interactions and preparations for the arrival of guests, highlighting themes of family dynamics, social status, and the longing for connection beyond their isolated world. At the start of the novel, a cold, bright afternoon sets the scene in the village, surrounded by winter's snow. The captain of the village, Peter Jäger, is introduced alongside his wife and their children as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of old friends and military officers. The wife busily prepares for the guests while dealing with her worries about the family's future and social status. The initial chapter vividly paints a picture of the family’s dynamic and the village’s atmosphere, setting the stage for the unfolding events and relationships that will develop throughout the story.
Recently surfaced classics