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Old Jabe's Marital Experiments 1908   By: (1853-1922)

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Old Jabe's Marital Experiments 1908 by Thomas Nelson Page is an insightful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of marriage and societal expectations in the early 20th century. Page's writing style is eloquent and captivating, transporting readers to a time when social norms and gender roles were deeply embedded in everyday life.

Set in a small Southern town, the story revolves around Jabez Armstrong, also known as Old Jabe, a middle-aged man who becomes fascinated with the idea of experimenting with his marriage. Through Old Jabe's unconventional quest, Page skillfully explores themes of love, fidelity, and personal fulfillment.

What makes this book truly engaging is the way Page brings the characters to life. Each individual, whether it is Old Jabe himself or his wife, Mary, is intricately developed with their own hopes, fears, and desires. As their journey unfolds, readers are compelled to question their own preconceptions about marriage and examine the limitations and expectations placed upon couples during this era.

Page's exploration of gender roles is particularly notable. In a time when women were expected to be submissive and fulfill societal expectations, Mary's character emerges as a symbol of resilience and strength. Her struggles to maintain her identity while adhering to the societal norms of the time are beautifully depicted, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

The novel also provides a vivid portrayal of the social landscape of the early 20th century, particularly in the rural South. Page's detailed descriptions of the town, its inhabitants, and the dynamics of the community not only serve as a backdrop to the story but also offer valuable insights into the cultural context of the time.

One of the book's main strengths lies in its ability to provoke introspection. Through Old Jabe's marital experiments, readers are forced to reflect on their own relationships and consider the compromises and sacrifices they are willing to make for personal fulfillment. Moreover, Page's timeless exploration of the human psyche makes this book relevant even in today's society, where questions of marriage and personal happiness are still at the forefront of many individuals' minds.

While Old Jabe's Marital Experiments 1908 may not appeal to readers seeking fast-paced action or suspenseful plot twists, it is a deeply enriching read that delves into the intricacies of human relationships with grace and eloquence. Page's masterful storytelling and profound insights make this novel a valuable contribution to the literary landscape, deserving of recognition and continued appreciation.

First Page:

OLD JABE'S MARITAL EXPERIMENTS

By Thomas Nelson Page

Charles Scribner's Sons New York, 1908

Copyright, 1891, 1904, 1906

Old Jabe belonged to the Meriwethers, a fact which he never forgot or allowed anyone else to forget; and on this he traded as a capital, which paid him many dividends of one kind or another, among them being a dividend in wives. How many wives he had had no one knew; and Jabe's own account was incredible. It would have eclipsed Henry VIII and Bluebeard. But making all due allowance for his arithmetic, he must have run these worthies a close second. He had not been a specially good "hand" before the war, and was generally on unfriendly terms with the overseers. They used to say that he was a "slick tongued loafer," and "the laziest nigger on the place." But Jabe declared, in defiance, that he had been on the plantation before any overseer ever put his foot there, and he would outstay the last one of them all, which, indeed, proved to be true. The overseers disappeared with the end of Slavery, but Jabe remained "slick tongued," oily, and humorous, as before.

When, at the close of the war, the other negroes moved away, Jabez, after a brief outing, "took up" a few acres on the far edge of the plantation, several miles from the house, and settled down to spend the rest of his days, on what he called his "place," in such ease as constant application to his old mistress for aid and a frequently renewed supply of wives could give... Continue reading book >>




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