"The Hand of Ethelberta: A Comedy in Chapters" by Thomas Hardy is a story set in late 19th century Wessex, about a witty young widow named Ethelberta who juggles society's expectations and her own ambitions, all while managing past and present romances. The tale begins with Ethelberta emerging from an inn, immediately captivating the locals with her charm and mysterious history, which includes her transition from governess to a socially elevated marriage. The story showcases the town's fascination with her, their speculation about her background, and the re-emergence of Christopher Julian, hinting at rekindled emotions and the problems she navigates in her life. The novel balances elements of social observation with lighthearted humor, focusing on Ethelberta's balancing act between her complicated past and the uncertainties of her future and her culture.
The Hand of Ethelberta: A Comedy in Chapters
By Thomas Hardy
A captivating widow navigates love, society, and secrets in a quaint town full of curious characters and past flames.
Summary
About the AuthorThomas Hardy was an English novelist and poet. A Victorian realist in the tradition of George Eliot, he was influenced both in his novels and in his poetry by Romanticism, including the poetry of William Wordsworth. He was highly critical of much in Victorian society, especially on the declining status of rural people in Britain such as those from his native South West England.
Thomas Hardy was an English novelist and poet. A Victorian realist in the tradition of George Eliot, he was influenced both in his novels and in his poetry by Romanticism, including the poetry of William Wordsworth. He was highly critical of much in Victorian society, especially on the declining status of rural people in Britain such as those from his native South West England.
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