The Two Marys

"The Two Marys" by Mrs. Oliphant is a 19th-century story focusing on Mary Peveril, whose quiet life as a clergyman's daughter changes when her father remarries, bringing Mary Martindale into their home. Set in London, the story looks at love, companionship, and societal shifts as the two women's lives become connected. The start of the book shows Mary Peveril’s memories of her childhood with her father after her mother died, and how close they were. Her peaceful life is disrupted when her father announces he wants to marry again, which promises trouble as the new Mary enters their world. As Mary struggles with feeling left out, the story builds up to struggles that will test their bonds, showing how they will grow as they handle issues together. The beginning sets up the emotional importance of the story and the relationships between characters, hinting at struggles and eventual progress in their combined lives.