The Two Sides of the Shield

"The Two Sides of the Shield" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a late 19th-century novel centered on Dolores Mohun, a young girl grappling with significant life changes. After her father takes a government job in Fiji for three years, Dolores must leave him and live with her Aunt Lilias and her numerous cousins, which sets the stage for a story about family, belonging, and personal resilience. The narrative begins with a sorrowful conversation between Dolores and her father, where she learns about his move and her new living arrangements, sparking anxiety about fitting in with relatives she fears will be unkind. Her departure is filled with dread, fueled by stories of cruel aunts, while her arrival at her aunt's bustling home leaves her feeling like an outsider, burdened by expectations to succeed. These opening events highlight Dolores's upcoming journey of finding her place within a loving but challenging family environment.