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Hilda A Story of Calcutta   By: (1861-1922)

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Hilda: A Story of Calcutta by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a compelling novel that explores the complexities of life in colonial Calcutta during the British Raj. Set in the late 19th century, the story revolves around the titular character, Hilda Howe, a young and determined woman who struggles to find her place in a society rigidly divided by race, class, and gender.

Duncan masterfully portrays the stark contrast between the opulence of the British elite and the misery of the Indian underclass. Through vivid descriptions, the reader is transported to the bustling streets of Calcutta, with its vibrant markets, towering British mansions, and impoverished Indian neighborhoods. The author's attention to detail brings the city to life, immersing the reader in its rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and conflicts.

Hilda, as a character, is captivating and relatable. She is a woman ahead of her time, fiercely independent and driven by her desire to make a difference. Despite the limitations imposed by her gender and social status, she defies societal norms and fights against injustice, particularly with regard to the treatment of Indian women. Her strength of character and determination make her a compelling protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way.

The novel also delves into the complexities of interracial relationships and the profound impact of cultural clashes. Hilda's romance with Captain Heartsease, a British army officer, is both passionate and tumultuous, reflecting the challenges of love across divides of race and background. Their relationship becomes a microcosm of the broader tensions between the British and Indian communities, offering a nuanced exploration of the dynamics shaping colonial India.

What sets Hilda apart from other novels of its time is Duncan's sharp social commentary. She tackles themes of imperialism, discrimination, and the struggle for independence with a keen eye for detail. The author highlights the glaring inequality inherent in British rule, exposing the hypocrisy of the colonizers who exploit India for their own gain. Duncan's critique of colonialism is subtle but powerful, making this novel an important contribution to the literature of the time.

Overall, Hilda: A Story of Calcutta is a thought-provoking and engaging read that sheds light on a pivotal era in the history of British India. Sara Jeannette Duncan's writing is evocative and immersive, painting a vivid picture of life in colonial Calcutta. With its compelling characters and insightful social commentary, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of colonialism and its impact on individuals and societies.

First Page:

HILDA

A STORY OF CALCUTTA

BY SARAH JEANETTE DUNCAN (MRS. EVERARD COTES)

Author of "A Social Departure," "An American Girl in London," "His Honour and a Lady," "A Voyage of Consolation," "Vernon's Aunt," "A Daughter of To day," etc.

NEW YORK FREDERICK A. STOKES COMPANY PUBLISHERS

Copyright, 1898 By Frederick A. Stokes Company

HILDA

CHAPTER I.

Miss Howe pushed the portière aside with a curved hand and gracefully separated fingers; it was a staccato movement, and her body followed it after an instant's poise of hesitation, head thrust a little forward, eyes inquiring, and a tentative smile, although she knew precisely who was there. You would have been aware at once that she was an actress. She entered the room with a little stride, and then crossed it quickly, the train of her morning gown it cried out of luxury with the cheapest voice taking folds of great audacity, as she bent her face in its loose mass of hair over Laura Filbert, sitting on the edge of a bamboo sofa, and said

"You poor thing! Oh, you poor thing!"

She took Laura's hand as she spoke, and tried to keep it; but the hand was neutral, and she let it go. "It is a hand," she said to herself, in one of those quick reflections that so often visited her ready made, "that turns the merely inquiring mind away... Continue reading book >>




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