I Hated it at First; Loved it at Last

Written as a sequel to "Pride and Prejudice," this story begins unpromisingly. In fact, I thought it was too depressing to continue. When I picked it up again, I found that it progresses well. There is a strong emphasis on the tenuous lives women led in the past. Money, potential inheritance, marriage (though it might rob them of every asset they had), and the birth of sons were requirements for a secure future. Additionally, the need for societal approval and the fear of contravening the strict morality women were expected to observe are highlighted. Despite these serious themes, I found Charlotte's story amusing and heartwarming, highlighting the value of close friendships between women and the acceptance of what is good, even if it is unexciting. At the same time, the story offers a glimpse of the independence available to only a few women in that era. Despite a painful start and the thread of grief that runs through it, this is a positive story worth reading. It encompasses the roots of early feminism and leads to what we can all only hope for: a contented conclusion.