Margret Howth, a Story of To-day   By: Rebecca Harding Davis (1831-1910)

Margret Howth, a Story of To-day by Rebecca Harding Davis is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of class, gender dynamics, and societal expectations in 19th-century America. Set against the backdrop of the industrial revolution, the novel follows the life of Margret Howth, a young working-class woman who finds herself caught between the harsh reality of poverty and the desire for a better life.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Davis' richly detailed portrayal of the social disparities of the era. Through Margret's eyes, we witness the stark contrast between the opulent lifestyles of the upper class and the struggles faced by the working class. Davis masterfully explores the economic divide and highlights the injustices inherent in the capitalist system. The author's keen observations of the era's social injustices and the impact of economic inequality make this novel highly relevant, even in today's society.

Margret, as the main protagonist, is an incredibly well-crafted character. Davis portrays her with depth and authenticity, capturing her inner turmoil, hopes, and resilience. Margret's journey from a naive and hopeful young woman to a disillusioned and independent individual is beautifully depicted. Her struggles, thoughts, and decisions are relatable, evoking both empathy and admiration from readers.

Moreover, the novel confronts the limitations placed upon women in the 19th century. Margret challenges societal expectations by refusing to conform to traditional gender roles. She displays a great deal of agency and determination, a stark contrast to the passive personas often assigned to female characters of the time. Davis skillfully explores the complexities of gender dynamics, shedding light on the power imbalances and the constant struggle for women's autonomy.

The writing style employed by Davis is both evocative and immersive. She paints vivid pictures of the industrial landscape, capturing the grimy reality of factories and the harsh working conditions endured by the laboring class. Davis' prose is eloquent, yet accessible, allowing readers to easily become engrossed in the narrative. The dialogue is authentic, revealing the nuances of interpersonal relationships and the desperation felt by those living in poverty.

Although the pacing of the novel can be slow at times, it serves to emphasize the monotony and endless struggle faced by the working class. Furthermore, Davis masterfully weaves in elements of mystery and suspense that keep readers eagerly turning the pages, eager to uncover the truth behind the characters' actions and motivations.

Margret Howth, a Story of To-day is a stirring and socially conscious novel that explores the universal themes of class struggle, gender inequality, and the pursuit of self-determination. Davis' ability to capture the harsh realities of the era, coupled with her vivid characterization and evocative prose, makes this book a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and those interested in understanding the complexities of society's past and present.

First Page:

Let me tell you a story of To Day, very homely and narrow in its scope and aim. Not of the To Day whose significance in the history of humanity only those shall read who will live when you and I are dead. We can bear the pain in silence, if our hearts are strong enough, while the nations of the earth stand afar off. I have no word of this To Day to speak. I write from the border of the battlefield, and I find in it no theme for shallow argument or flimsy rhymes. The shadow of death has fallen on us; it chills the very heaven. No child laughs in my face as I pass down the street. Men have forgotten to hope, forgotten to pray; only in the bitterness of endurance, they say "in the morning, 'Would God it were even!' and in the evening, 'Would God it were morning!'" Neither I nor you have the prophet's vision to see the age as its meaning stands written before God. Those who shall live when we are dead may tell their children, perhaps, how, out of anguish and darkness such as the world seldom has borne, the enduring morning evolved of the true world and the true man. It is not clear to us. Hands wet with a brother's blood for the Right, a slavery of intolerance, the hackneyed cant of men, or the blood thirstiness of women, utter no prophecy to us of the great To Morrow of content and right that holds the world... Continue reading book >>