In late November and early December of last year, I read
the classic novel Villette by
Charlotte Brontë. I have read Jane Eyre a couple times in the past and
was curious about Brontë’s other, less famous, novels. I chose Villette
because I read somewhere, though I can’t remember where, that the story is the
most autobiographical of Brontë’s works.
Although I am happy to have finished the novel, I was
rather disappointed with how difficult it was for me to connect with the
protagonist, a young woman named Lucy Snowe. Throughout the majority of the novel Lucy is
around my current age and is embarking upon a completely new chapter of
life. Prior to reading the novel, I
assumed I would connect with the story immediately! I have been thinking, though, that perhaps the
reason I could not connect with the story was that Lucy was presented as a
young woman who seemed to be happy to be stagnant in her skill set, while I
feel I am always curious and eager to add to mine! Any passion or interest she may have felt inwardly
was written about with a calm, distant reserve. {Also, she fell in love with my least favorite
character in the book…. that could have increased my distaste for her!}
I’m curious, have you read Villette? If so, what was your
opinion?
Currently reading: Barchester
Towers by Anthony Tollope.
I haven't, but I'm so intrigued! Did you like the book, even if you couldn't connect with Lucy?
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your thoughts!
I did like the book overall. It had a very meandering and low-key tone so it's a great book if you only have a short time to read each day. I would still recommend it!
DeleteIt had a theme especially in the second half that explored some of the differences between the Catholic church and protestants which, considering what you've written about your education, you may find interesting! :)
Absolutely! That subject fascinates me! :)
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