The Minister's Charge By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)
In "The Minister's Charge" by William Dean Howells, readers are invited on a journey that explores the complexities of human nature, society's expectations, and the power of love and forgiveness. Set in a small New England town, the story centers around Reverend Lemuel Wheeler, a deeply religious man who has dedicated his life to serving his community. However, his steadfast beliefs are challenged when he is appointed the guardian of his deceased friend's young daughter, Alice. This unexpected responsibility forces Reverend Wheeler to confront his own doubts and fears, ultimately questioning the very foundations of his faith. As the narrative unfolds, Howells skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, each showcasing the various struggles faced by the characters. Alice, a spirited and independent girl, grapples with her new surroundings and the pressure to conform to societal norms. Reverend Wheeler's relationship with Alice becomes the catalyst for his personal transformation as he learns to let go of his rigidity and embrace love and empathy. What sets "The Minister's Charge" apart is Howells' ability to delve deep into the psyche of the characters, presenting their inner conflicts with great emotional depth. Readers are offered a glimpse into the complexities of Reverend Wheeler's internal struggle as he questions the role of religion in his life and contemplates the true meaning of morality. This introspection is not limited to Reverend Wheeler alone; each character undergoes a profound examination of their own values, beliefs, and the expectations placed upon them by society. Another aspect that stands out in this novel is Howells' keen observational skills. Through vivid and meticulous descriptions, Howells paints a detailed picture of the New England town, capturing its idiosyncrasies and social dynamics. This attention to detail creates an immersive reading experience, enhancing the rich tapestry of the narrative. While some readers may find the pacing slow at certain moments, the leisurely tempo serves a purpose. It allows for the gradual development of the characters and their relationships, culminating in moments of great resonance. Howells' nuanced exploration of themes such as family, faith, and societal pressures provokes profound introspection, leaving readers pondering their own beliefs and values long after they have finished reading. In "The Minister's Charge," William Dean Howells crafts a thought-provoking narrative filled with memorable characters and profound reflections on life's complexities. It is a timeless exploration of the human condition, delivering a powerful message about the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the willingness to challenge one's deeply held convictions. First Page: Anne Folland, Eric Eldred, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team THE MINISTER'S CHARGE OR THE APPRENTICESHIP OF LEMUEL BARKER BY WILLIAM D. HOWELLS AUTHOR OF "THE RISE OF SILAS LAPHAM," "A MODERN INSTANCE," "INDIAN SUMMER," ETC. THE MINISTER'S CHARGE; OR, THE APPRENTICESHIP OF LEMUEL BARKER. I. On their way back to the farm house where they were boarding, Sewell's wife reproached him for what she called his recklessness. "You had no right," she said, "to give the poor boy false hopes. You ought to have discouraged him that would have been the most merciful way if you knew the poetry was bad. Now, he will go on building all sorts of castles in the air on your praise, and sooner or later they will come tumbling about his ears just to gratify your passion for saying pleasant things to people." "I wish you had a passion for saying pleasant things to me, my dear," suggested her husband evasively. "Oh, a nice time I should have!" "I don't know about your nice time, but I feel pretty certain of my own. How do you know Oh, do get up, you implacable cripple!" he broke off to the lame mare he was driving, and pulled at the reins. "Don't saw her mouth!" cried Mrs. Sewell. "Well, let her get up, then, and I won't. I don't like to saw her mouth; but I have to do something when you come down on me with your interminable consequences... Continue reading book >>

The Minister's Charge By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

In "The Minister's Charge" by William Dean Howells, readers are invited on a journey that explores the complexities of human nature, society's expectations, and the power of love and forgiveness.

Set in a small New England town, the story centers around Reverend Lemuel Wheeler, a deeply religious man who has dedicated his life to serving his community. However, his steadfast beliefs are challenged when he is appointed the guardian of his deceased friend's young daughter, Alice. This unexpected responsibility forces Reverend Wheeler to confront his own doubts and fears, ultimately questioning the very foundations of his faith.

As the narrative unfolds, Howells skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, each showcasing the various struggles faced by the characters. Alice, a spirited and independent girl, grapples with her new surroundings and the pressure to conform to societal norms. Reverend Wheeler's relationship with Alice becomes the catalyst for his personal transformation as he learns to let go of his rigidity and embrace love and empathy.

What sets "The Minister's Charge" apart is Howells' ability to delve deep into the psyche of the characters, presenting their inner conflicts with great emotional depth. Readers are offered a glimpse into the complexities of Reverend Wheeler's internal struggle as he questions the role of religion in his life and contemplates the true meaning of morality. This introspection is not limited to Reverend Wheeler alone; each character undergoes a profound examination of their own values, beliefs, and the expectations placed upon them by society.

Another aspect that stands out in this novel is Howells' keen observational skills. Through vivid and meticulous descriptions, Howells paints a detailed picture of the New England town, capturing its idiosyncrasies and social dynamics. This attention to detail creates an immersive reading experience, enhancing the rich tapestry of the narrative.

While some readers may find the pacing slow at certain moments, the leisurely tempo serves a purpose. It allows for the gradual development of the characters and their relationships, culminating in moments of great resonance. Howells' nuanced exploration of themes such as family, faith, and societal pressures provokes profound introspection, leaving readers pondering their own beliefs and values long after they have finished reading.

In "The Minister's Charge," William Dean Howells crafts a thought-provoking narrative filled with memorable characters and profound reflections on life's complexities. It is a timeless exploration of the human condition, delivering a powerful message about the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the willingness to challenge one's deeply held convictions.

First Page:

Anne Folland, Eric Eldred, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team

THE MINISTER'S CHARGE

THE APPRENTICESHIP OF LEMUEL BARKER

WILLIAM D. HOWELLS

AUTHOR OF "THE RISE OF SILAS LAPHAM," "A MODERN INSTANCE," "INDIAN SUMMER," ETC.

THE MINISTER'S CHARGE;

OR, THE APPRENTICESHIP OF LEMUEL BARKER.

On their way back to the farm house where they were boarding, Sewell's wife reproached him for what she called his recklessness. "You had no right," she said, "to give the poor boy false hopes. You ought to have discouraged him that would have been the most merciful way if you knew the poetry was bad. Now, he will go on building all sorts of castles in the air on your praise, and sooner or later they will come tumbling about his ears just to gratify your passion for saying pleasant things to people."

"I wish you had a passion for saying pleasant things to me, my dear," suggested her husband evasively.

"Oh, a nice time I should have!"

"I don't know about your nice time, but I feel pretty certain of my own. How do you know Oh, do get up, you implacable cripple!" he broke off to the lame mare he was driving, and pulled at the reins.

"Don't saw her mouth!" cried Mrs. Sewell.

"Well, let her get up, then, and I won't. I don't like to saw her mouth; but I have to do something when you come down on me with your interminable consequences... Continue reading book >>

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Literature

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