Portion of Labor by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the challenges and complexities of marriage and motherhood in the late 19th century. The story follows the lives of two sisters, one who is content with her traditional role as a wife and mother, and the other who longs for something more fulfilling.
Freeman's writing is rich and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the New England countryside and the struggles faced by women of the era. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each grappling with their own desires and societal expectations.
One of the strengths of the novel is how Freeman explores the theme of self-fulfillment and the search for personal identity within the confines of domestic life. The contrast between the two sisters' outlooks on their roles in the family is particularly compelling, showing the different ways women could navigate the limitations placed on them by society.
Overall, Portion of Labor is a poignant and insightful look at the complexities of womanhood and the choices women were faced with during a time when their roles were strictly defined. Freeman's prose is engaging and thoughtful, making this novel a must-read for anyone interested in the history of women's rights and the struggle for autonomy.
Book Description:
This is the story of Ellen Brewster, pretty little daughter of shoe-mill workers in a Northeastern US town of the late 19th century. After the mill shuts down, her family struggles to make ends meet, but as the years pass, Ellen grows up into a prize pupil and pride of the community. The story also covers the birth of the American labor movement and the relationships between rich and poor.