Bessie Costrell By: Humphry Ward (1851-1920)
Bessie Costrell by Humphry Ward is a remarkable piece of literature that skillfully captures the struggles and triumphs of its titular protagonist. Set in the late 19th century, the novel immerses readers in a society deeply entrenched in class divisions and societal expectations. The story revolves around Bessie Costrell, a young woman from a modest background who is determined to rise above her circumstances. Despite facing countless obstacles, Bessie's unwavering spirit and fierce determination shine through, making her an inspiring and multidimensional character. Ward's writing style is exquisite, transporting readers to the era with evocative descriptions and elegant prose. The author expertly portrays the stark contrast between the opulence of the upper class and the harsh realities faced by those in the lower echelons of society. Through this stark juxtaposition, Ward effectively critiques the social inequalities and injustices of the time, shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals like Bessie. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of gender roles and the limitations imposed on women during this era. Bessie challenges societal norms and expectations, defying traditional gender boundaries and carving her own path. Ward portrays her as an intelligent, independent woman with agency, a refreshing departure from the passive female characters often found in Victorian novels. The development of supporting characters adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Along Bessie's journey, readers meet a diverse cast of individuals, each navigating their own challenges and ambitions. Ward skillfully weaves their stories together, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives that enriches the overall reading experience. However, despite the novel's many strengths, it occasionally suffers from a slower pace in certain parts. While the author's attention to detail is commendable, some readers may find themselves longing for more momentum in the story. Fortunately, these moments are few and fleeting, and they do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the book. In conclusion, Bessie Costrell is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of class, gender, and ambition. Humphry Ward's skillful storytelling and vivid portrayals of characters make this an engrossing read that lingers in the mind long after the final page. It is a timely reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for individuals to defy societal limitations and forge their own paths. First Page: BESSIE COSTRELL BY MRS. HUMPHRY WARD AUTHOR OF "ROBERT ELSMERE," "THE HISTORY OF DAVID GRIEVE," "MARCELLA," ETC. HODDER AND STOUGHTON LONDON NEW YORK TORONTO 1912 SCENE I It was an August evening, still and cloudy after a day unusually chilly for the time of year. Now, about sunset, the temperature was warmer than it had been in the morning, and the departing sun was forcing its way through the clouds, breaking up their level masses into delicate lattice work of golds and greys. The last radiant light was on the wheat fields under the hill, and on the long chalk hill itself. Against that glowing background lay the village, already engulfed by the advancing shadow. All the nearer trees, which the daylight had mingled in one green monotony, stood out sharp and distinct, each in its own plane, against the hill. Each natural object seemed to gain a new accent, a more individual beauty, from the vanishing and yet lingering sunlight. An elderly labourer was walking along the road which led to the village. To his right lay the allotment gardens just beginning to be alive with figures, and the voices of men and children. Beyond them, far ahead, rose the square tower of the church; to his left was the hill, and straight in front of him the village, with its veils of smoke lightly brushed over the trees, and its lines of cottages climbing the chalk steeps behind it... Continue reading book >>

Bessie Costrell By: Humphry Ward (1851-1920)

Bessie Costrell by Humphry Ward is a remarkable piece of literature that skillfully captures the struggles and triumphs of its titular protagonist. Set in the late 19th century, the novel immerses readers in a society deeply entrenched in class divisions and societal expectations.

The story revolves around Bessie Costrell, a young woman from a modest background who is determined to rise above her circumstances. Despite facing countless obstacles, Bessie's unwavering spirit and fierce determination shine through, making her an inspiring and multidimensional character.

Ward's writing style is exquisite, transporting readers to the era with evocative descriptions and elegant prose. The author expertly portrays the stark contrast between the opulence of the upper class and the harsh realities faced by those in the lower echelons of society. Through this stark juxtaposition, Ward effectively critiques the social inequalities and injustices of the time, shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals like Bessie.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of gender roles and the limitations imposed on women during this era. Bessie challenges societal norms and expectations, defying traditional gender boundaries and carving her own path. Ward portrays her as an intelligent, independent woman with agency, a refreshing departure from the passive female characters often found in Victorian novels.

The development of supporting characters adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Along Bessie's journey, readers meet a diverse cast of individuals, each navigating their own challenges and ambitions. Ward skillfully weaves their stories together, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives that enriches the overall reading experience.

However, despite the novel's many strengths, it occasionally suffers from a slower pace in certain parts. While the author's attention to detail is commendable, some readers may find themselves longing for more momentum in the story. Fortunately, these moments are few and fleeting, and they do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the book.

In conclusion, Bessie Costrell is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of class, gender, and ambition. Humphry Ward's skillful storytelling and vivid portrayals of characters make this an engrossing read that lingers in the mind long after the final page. It is a timely reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for individuals to defy societal limitations and forge their own paths.

First Page:

BESSIE COSTRELL

MRS. HUMPHRY WARD

AUTHOR OF

"ROBERT ELSMERE," "THE HISTORY OF DAVID GRIEVE," "MARCELLA," ETC.

HODDER AND STOUGHTON

LONDON NEW YORK TORONTO

1912

SCENE I

It was an August evening, still and cloudy after a day unusually chilly for the time of year. Now, about sunset, the temperature was warmer than it had been in the morning, and the departing sun was forcing its way through the clouds, breaking up their level masses into delicate lattice work of golds and greys. The last radiant light was on the wheat fields under the hill, and on the long chalk hill itself. Against that glowing background lay the village, already engulfed by the advancing shadow. All the nearer trees, which the daylight had mingled in one green monotony, stood out sharp and distinct, each in its own plane, against the hill. Each natural object seemed to gain a new accent, a more individual beauty, from the vanishing and yet lingering sunlight.

An elderly labourer was walking along the road which led to the village. To his right lay the allotment gardens just beginning to be alive with figures, and the voices of men and children. Beyond them, far ahead, rose the square tower of the church; to his left was the hill, and straight in front of him the village, with its veils of smoke lightly brushed over the trees, and its lines of cottages climbing the chalk steeps behind it... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Bessie Costrell

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