Subject
Women -- Suffrage -- 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.
Marietta Holley
Sweet Cicely — or Josiah Allen as a Politician
"Sweet Cicely — or Josiah Allen as a Politician" by Marietta Holley is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story centers on the character of Cicely and explores themes of love, family, and the struggles of navigating societal expectations and personal dilemmas, particularly in the realm of political involvement and maternal devotion. At the start of the novel, the opening introduces Josiah Allen and his wife, Samantha, who are excitedly expecting a visit from their niece Cicely, whom they adore. The narrative quickly draws readers into Cicely's past, recounting her delicate upbringing and deep connection with her late mother. As the couple reminisces about Cicely's beauty and the profound love they have for her, they reveal their concerns over her tumultuous relationship with her husband, Paul Slide, who battles alcohol addiction. The emotional complexity of their family ties is set against a backdrop highlighting societal issues related to alcoholism and women's rights, establishing an engaging foundation for the unfolding narrative about Cicely's attempts to safeguard her son from the same fate.
Maria Thompson Daviess
The Tinder-Box
"The Tinder-Box" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel published in the early 20th century that explores themes of love, independence, and the evolving role of women in society. The story follows Evelina Shelby, a recently graduated architecture student returning to her hometown, Glendale, Tennessee, where she grapples with her newfound aspirations for personal freedom and the societal expectations surrounding marriage and gender roles. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist, Evelina, as she reflects on her emotional landscape and her relationships with her friends, particularly Jane Mathers, who encourages her to assert herself in love and life. Evelina is posed with a challenge: to navigate her feelings for Richard Hall and Polk Hayes while also being urged to take responsibility for guiding other young women in their romantic choices. Throughout these early pages, we see Evelina's internal conflict between traditional societal roles and her desire for independence, setting the stage for her journey of self-discovery and empowerment amidst the complexities of familial and romantic expectations.
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