Duffels   By: Edward Eggleston (1837-1902)

Duffels by Edward Eggleston is an extraordinary fiction tale that explores the depths of human emotions and challenges societal norms. Set in a small town in Indiana during the mid-19th century, this captivating novel takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the dramatic events that shape the lives of its diverse cast of characters.

Eggleston's writing effortlessly transports readers back in time, capturing the essence of the era. The vivid descriptions of the rustic town, its people, and the struggles they face paint a rich and immersive picture. From the very first page, the author's attention to detail creates a palpable sense of time and place, enveloping readers in a world of fading traditions and changing social landscapes.

The story revolves around the young protagonist, Matthew Duffel, an ambitious and determined individual with dreams beyond the confines of his humble origins. Eggleston expertly delves into Matthew's journey, exploring the complexities of his character as he navigates the challenges of class divide and societal expectations.

What sets Duffels apart is the well-developed and relatable cast of supporting characters. Each individual, from the town's prominent figures to the local artisans, brings a unique perspective and personal history to the narrative. Their interactions, dialogues, and experiences add depth to the overarching plot, giving readers a glimpse into the intricate web of relationships and perspectives that shape the community.

Furthermore, Eggleston uses his characters as vessels to tackle important themes such as identity, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness amidst societal constraints. The author masterfully highlights the limitations imposed on individuals by their socioeconomic status and the internal struggle many face when trying to break free from these constraints.

Eggleston's prose is eloquent and evocative, immersing readers in a world that is both familiar and distant. His ability to capture the intricacies of human nature is commendable, as he expertly weaves together a tapestry of emotions, ranging from love and friendship to betrayal and despair. The author's exquisite storytelling keeps readers hooked, anxiously turning the pages to uncover the fate of the characters they have grown to care deeply about.

However, despite the novel's numerous strengths, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven. Some plot points are resolved too swiftly, while others drag on, disrupting the overall flow of the story. Nevertheless, these instances do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the narrative.

To conclude, Duffels is an enthralling and poignant novel that delves into the human condition with depth and empathy. Edward Eggleston's impeccable storytelling and rich characterization ensure a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience. This book is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and those who appreciate profound explorations of the human spirit.

First Page:

The once famous Mrs. Anne Grant known in literature as Mrs. Grant of Laggan spent part of her childhood in our New York Albany, then a town almost wholly given to traffic with the aborigines. To her we owe a description of the setting out of the young American Dutch trader to ascend the Mohawk in a canoe, by laborious paddling and toilsome carrying round rifts and falls, in order to penetrate to the dangerous region of the tribes beyond the Six Nations. The outfit of this young "bushloper," as such a man was called in the still earlier Dutch period, consisted mainly of a sort of cloth suited to Indian wants. But there were added minor articles of use and fancy to please the youth or captivate the imagination of the women in the tribes. Combs, pocket mirrors, hatchets, knives, jew's harps, pigments for painting the face blue, yellow, and vermilion, and other such things, were stored away in the canoe, to be spread out as temptations before the eyes of some group of savages rich in a winter's catch of furs... Continue reading book >>