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Five O'Clock Tea Farce   By: (1837-1920)

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Five O'Clock Tea Farce by William Dean Howells is a delightful and humorous novel that perfectly captures the absurdity of the upper-class society in late 19th-century America. With his exceptional wit and sharp observation, Howells presents a satirical take on the social conventions and pretensions of the time.

The story revolves around a group of wealthy characters who gather for their daily afternoon tea, engaging in trivial conversations and indulging in gossip. Howells masterfully portrays the characters, each with their distinct idiosyncrasies and eccentricities, making them both relatable and comical. From impulsive young lovers to nosy and opinionated matrons, the characters are brought to life with vivid descriptions and clever dialogue.

What sets Five O'Clock Tea Farce apart is Howells' skillful commentary on the shallow nature of the upper class. With a keen eye for social satire, he reveals the ridiculousness of their concerns and the pettiness of their interactions. Through humor and irony, he lampoons their obsession with appearances and the elaborate etiquette they adhere to.

The plot of the novel unfolds through a series of humorous misunderstandings and miscommunications. Howells expertly employs situational comedy and farcical elements to create hilarious and chaotic situations. The tea party scenes, in particular, are filled with clever wordplay and cleverly choreographed chaos that leaves readers snickering with each turn of the page.

Furthermore, what makes this novel truly remarkable is Howells' astute commentary on gender roles and societal expectations. He challenges the traditional notions of femininity, portraying some female characters as strong-willed and independent thinkers, while others conform to societal expectations. The dynamics between the characters create a thought-provoking exploration of gender dynamics during the time period.

While the novel's tone remains light-hearted throughout, it also offers moments of reflection and critique. Howells sneaks in subtle messages about the shallow nature of social hierarchies and the importance of authenticity and genuine human connections. Beneath the laughter, there is an underlying critique of the societal norms that restrict individual freedom and expression.

Five O'Clock Tea Farce is a charming and entertaining read that showcases Howells' exceptional talent as a satirical writer. With its witty dialogue, well-developed characters, and insightful social commentary, this novel is not only an amusing foray into the absurdity of the upper class but also a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and expectations. Whether you're a fan of comedy or interested in the workings of high society, this book is bound to leave you chuckling and contemplating long after the final page.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note: On page 31, in the list of characters, Mrs. Campbell has been changed to Mrs. Canfield.

FIVE O'CLOCK TEA

HARPER'S BLACK & WHITE SERIES

[Illustration: "'WILL YOU ANSWER MY QUESTION, AMY?'"]

FIVE O'CLOCK TEA

Farce

BY W. D. HOWELLS

ILLUSTRATED

NEW YORK HARPER AND BROTHERS 1894

Copyright, 1894, by HARPER & BROTHERS. Copyright, 1885, by HARPER & BROTHERS. Copyright, 1885, by W. D. HOWELLS.

All rights reserved.

ILLUSTRATIONS

"'WILL YOU ANSWER MY QUESTION, AMY?'" Frontispiece

"MRS. SOMERS, POURING A CUP OF TEA: 'THAT MAKES IT A LITTLE MORE DIFFICULT'" Facing page 32

FIVE O'CLOCK TEA

I

MRS. SOMERS; MR. WILLIS CAMPBELL

Mrs. Amy Somers, in a lightly floating tea gown of singularly becoming texture and color, employs the last moments of expectance before the arrival of her guests in marching up and down in front of the mirror which fills the space between the long windows of her drawing room, looking over either shoulder for different effects of the drifting and eddying train, and advancing upon her image with certain little bobs and bows, and retreating from it with a variety of fan practice and elaborated courtesies, finally degenerating into burlesque, and a series of grimaces and "mouths" made at the responsive reflex... Continue reading book >>




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