A "Good Fellow's" Wife: Love, Duty, and Societal Expectations in Late 19th Century America

In "A 'Good Fellow's' Wife," Hamlin Garland presents a poignant exploration of the complexities of marriage and the struggles of rural life in late 19th-century America. Through a vivid and immersive narrative style, Garland utilizes naturalism to depict the emotional landscapes of his characters, depicting the intricate dynamics between aspirations and harsh realities. The story follows the life of a woman caught between societal expectations and her individual desires, effectively illustrating the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Garland'Äôs acute observations offer readers a profound insight into the era's cultural mores and the internal conflicts that accompany them. Hamlin Garland, an influential figure in American literature, drew upon his own experiences growing up in the Midwest to inform his writing. His works frequently grapple with themes of disillusionment and the difficulties of agrarian life. Garlands' advocacy for realism in literature was influenced by his background and a desire to authentically depict the struggles of ordinary people, as seen in this work that resonates with both personal and collective human experience. This novel is highly recommended for readers fascinated by historical fiction and the intricacies of human relationships. Garland'Äôs masterful storytelling and psychological depth make "A 'Good Fellow's' Wife" an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of early American life and the struggle for individual identity within societal constraints.

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Release date

Ebook: 8 December 2020