Old Lady Mary: A Story of the Seen and the Unseen
Mrs. Oliphant
Sep 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
64
Pages
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About this ebook
In "Old Lady Mary," Mrs. Oliphant crafts a poignant narrative that delves into the life of an aging woman grappling with the passage of time and her fading social relevance. Set against the backdrop of Victorian society, Oliphant's rich prose juxtaposes the vibrancy of Mary's youthful memories with her current isolation. The novel beautifully captures the complexities of identity and the often-overlooked struggles of women in a patriarchal society, employing a literary style characterized by its introspective, almost conversational tone that invites readers into Mary's world of introspection and longing. Mrs. Oliphant, a prominent figure in 19th-century literature, was known for her keen observations of social mores and the intricacies of human emotion. Having experienced the trials of widowhood and economic instability, Oliphant's own life experiences informed her empathetic portrayal of her characters. Her expertise in exploring themes of gender and societal expectations resonates throughout "Old Lady Mary," illustrating the universal challenges of aging and the search for purpose. This novel is recommended for readers seeking a compelling exploration of the intersection of gender, identity, and aging. Oliphant's masterful narrative is not only a reflection on the life of an individual woman but also serves as a broader commentary on the societal conditions that shape women's lives. "Old Lady Mary" is an essential read for those interested in feminist literature and the enduring questions of personal significance.
About the author
Mrs. Oliphant, born Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant (1828–1897), was a prominent 19th-century Scottish novelist, biographer, and literary critic. With a literary career that spanned over 50 years, Mrs. Oliphant wrote more than 120 works encompassing fiction, history, and biography, demonstrating a prolificacy that made her a central figure in Victorian literature. 'Old Lady Mary' is one of the many novels she penned, showcasing her adeptness at combining supernatural elements with domestic realism, a hallmark of her literary style. Oliphant was known for her narrative dexterity and her ability to blend the concerns of the domestic sphere with broader social issues. Her writing often focused on the lives of women, providing insightful commentary on the gender dynamics and societal expectations of her time. As a widow supporting her children, Oliphant negotiated the dual demands of motherhood and authorship, imbuing her work with a lived authenticity that resonated with her readers. Despite the challenges of her personal life, including financial difficulties and the loss of her 10 children and husband, she maintained a stoic front and continued to contribute significantly to Victorian literature, with other notable works including 'The Chronicles of Carlingford' and 'Miss Marjoribanks'. Her legacy endures in the canon of 19th-century British literature, highlighting the blend of moral gravity and genteel satire that characterized her oeuvre.
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