The current paper focuses on the portrayal of the emotional development of three female figures in works of Edwardian literature. This development is crucial for the determination of their later fate and life due to the wisdom they acquire through their new experiences. The women in question are: Mrs Moore of "A Passage to India" (E. M. Forster, 1924) and Janet and Ursula Widdington of "Ladies in Lavender" in "Faraway Stories" (W. J. Locke, 1916).
The paper further places them in their corresponding literary background and finally draws some similarities and differences between each other. Due to the featured age and profile of these women we shall regard them as products of the Victorian society and witnesses of the transition from the Victorian to the Edwardian era. The emergence of the so-called ‘New Woman’ by the end of the nineteenth century with the accompanying women’s movement, the campaign for women’s suffrage as well as the terms ‘feminism’ and ‘feminist’ sought to create more space and independence for middle-class women, who were restricted to the customary household duties. The women who will be analysed are confronted with confusion and certain temptations that prompt them to question, if not defy, female social norms on very sensitive subjects such as the importance of Christian faith for the widowed Mrs Moore versus a more universal religion. Although she senses the universality of all creation, she does not consciously surrender to it, because she is disheartened by the fact that she cannot conceive of an adequate religion that represents such a pioneering idea.
The other topic addresses the potential to effectively fall in love as a marginalised spinster and claim not only the social benefits of marital life, e.g. as a mother, but also the joys of a sexually active life. The spreading of single women –referred to also as ‘surplus women’ or ‘redundant women’ – formed a social issue in the nineteenth century and was seen as a problem to be solved, as some of them even rebelled at the institution of marriage itself. In the featured short story we will see that, even if romance seemed to have arrived too late to the Widdington sisters, wisdom was acquired through the influence of the motto ‘youth flows magnetically to youth’4 and the forced acceptance of the irreversibility of time like a form of coming-of-age.
Table of Contents
- INTRODUCTION
- A PASSAGE TO INDIA AND ITS BACKGROUND
- LADIES IN LAVENDER AND ITS BACKGROUND
- MRS MOORE’S EXPERIENCES
- MOSQUE
- CAVES
- JANET’S AND URSULA’S EXPERIENCES
- IN CONCLUSION: TWO SPINSTERS AND A WIDOW
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper explores the portrayal of the emotional development of three female characters in Edwardian literature. The paper examines how their experiences shape their later lives and fates, focusing on the wisdom they gain through new encounters. It places these women within their literary contexts and draws comparisons between them. These women, shaped by Victorian society, are witnesses to the transition to the Edwardian era, experiencing the emergence of the ‘New Woman’ and the accompanying social shifts.
- The impact of new experiences on the emotional development of women
- The questioning of traditional social norms and expectations for women
- The exploration of spiritual and religious identity in the face of cultural diversity
- The challenges and opportunities of spinsterhood in late Victorian society
- The complexities of Anglo-Indian relations and the struggle for understanding and acceptance
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction: Introduces the three female characters and their respective works, highlighting their connection to the Victorian and Edwardian eras. It explores the societal context of the ‘New Woman’ and the changing roles of women, particularly concerning religious faith, spinsterhood, and marital expectations.
- A Passage to India and its Background: Provides context for E. M. Forster's novel, highlighting its themes of East-West relations and the exploration of sympathy and goodwill. It discusses Forster's changing perspective on Anglo-Indian connections, reflecting the impact of his travels and experiences in India.
- Ladies in Lavender and its Background: Introduces William John Locke's short story, focusing on its exploration of spinsterhood and the emotional challenges faced by two sisters in their forties. It discusses the Victorian social context, the societal pressure on women to marry, and the rise of the ‘New Woman’ who sought to redefine love and marriage.
- Mrs Moore’s Experiences: Explores Mrs Moore’s journey in A Passage to India, highlighting her encounters with Dr Aziz and the various cultural and religious encounters she faces. It examines her evolving relationship with her son, Ronny, and her struggle with the complexities of colonialism and the English attitude towards India.
- Mosque: Focuses on Mrs Moore’s initial encounter with Dr Aziz at the mosque, exploring their shared sense of beauty and appreciation for different cultures. It contrasts their individual experiences with the rigidness of the English colonial system, as represented by Ronny’s suspicion and judgment.
- Caves: Analyzes Mrs Moore’s journey to the Marabar Caves and the profound impact of this experience on her emotional and spiritual state. It explores the mystery and awe-inspiring nature of the caves, how the echo affects her, and how her initial optimism and sense of understanding are challenged.
- Janet’s and Ursula’s Experiences: Delves into the emotional journey of the two sisters in “Ladies in Lavender,” highlighting their encounter with Andrea and the impact he has on their lives. It explores the themes of romantic attraction, the dynamics of sisterhood, and the consequences of their actions.
Keywords
The text focuses on the emotional development of female characters within the Victorian and Edwardian contexts. Key themes include the ‘New Woman,’ societal expectations, the role of religion and spirituality in shaping identity, and the exploration of complex relationships within a changing cultural landscape. Specific topics include colonial attitudes, spinsterhood, and the challenges of navigating cultural and religious differences.
- Quote paper
- Michael Barkas (Author), 2016, Confrontations with Religious and Social Norms. The Emotional Adventures of Three Women in Edwardian Literature, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/351261
