April Hopes

"April Hopes" by William Dean Howells is a story set in late 19th-century America, in a rapidly changing society, and it follows Elbridge G. Mavering as he attends Class Day at Harvard University. Amid the festivities, Mavering reflects on the past and engages with characters like Mrs. Pasmer and her daughter Alice, who help illustrate complex gender dynamics, youth, and society's expectations. The story studies social acceptance, romantic feelings, and the differing roles held by men and women in society through their interactions. The novel begins at Hemenway Gymnasium, where celebrations are in full swing, and Mavering begins a conversation with Mrs. Pasmer, discussing the shifting dynamics between men and women and men's expectations of the treatment of women. He sees a younger generation of students, hinting at changing values and behaviors and weaving a social story that explores relationships and the effects of rapid changes in society.