Mary By: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1832-1910)
Mary by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal constraints that shape them. Set in rural Norway during the late 19th century, the story revolves around the titular character, Mary, and her struggle for independence in a patriarchal society. The book opens with Mary, a spirited and independent young woman, questioning the traditional roles imposed on women. She dreams of achieving personal and professional fulfillment, far beyond the limited options available to her. Bjørnson skillfully portrays Mary's inner conflict as she grapples with societal expectations while yearning to break free from them. One of the central themes in the book is the clash between individual desires and societal norms. Despite Mary's aspirations, she finds herself caught between the expectations of her family, her community, and her lover, Paul. Through Mary's character, Bjørnson delves into the limitations imposed on women at that time, highlighting the unfulfilled potential and stifled dreams that many faced. The novel also explores the complexities of love and relationships. Mary's relationship with Paul serves as a contrasting example to societal norms, as their connection transcends traditional boundaries. However, even their love is not immune to the pressures of society, and their story becomes entangled in the larger web of social expectations. Bjørnson's writing is captivating and rich in descriptive detail. His vivid descriptions of the Norwegian landscape create a strong sense of place, immersing the reader in the beauty and isolation of the rural setting. Additionally, his elegant prose adeptly conveys the emotional depth of the characters and their internal struggles. While some readers may find the novel's pace slower than contemporary works, Bjørnson's deliberate approach serves to highlight the internal battles that Mary endures. The introspective nature of the narrative allows for deeper exploration of themes such as gender roles, societal pressures, and personal freedom. Mary is a poignant and deeply introspective novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson's masterful storytelling and his thought-provoking exploration of gender dynamics make this timeless classic a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of human relationships and the societal structures that shape them. First Page: THE NOVELS OF BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON Edited by EDMUND GOSSE VOLUME XIII THE NOVELS OF BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON Edited by EDMUND GOSSE Fcap. 8vo, cloth 3s. net. Synnöve Solbakken. Arne. A Happy Boy. The Fisher Lass. The Bridal March, & A Day. Magnhild, & Dust. Captain Mansana, & Mother's Hands. Absalom's Hair, & A Painful Memory. In God's Way. (2 vols.) The Heritage of the Kurts. (2 vols.) Mary. LONDON WILLIAM HEINEMANN 21 Bedford Street, W. C. MARY BY BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON Translated from the Norwegian by MARY MORISON LONDON WILLIAM HEINEMANN 1909 All rights reserved THE HOMESTEAD AND THE RACE The coast line of the south of Norway is very irregular. This is the work of the mountains and rivers. The former end in hillocks and headlands, off which often lie islands; the latter have dug out valleys and end in fjords or smaller inlets. In one of these inlets, known as "Kroken" (the nook), lies the homestead. The original name of the place was Krokskogen. In the documents of the Danish government officials this was transformed into Krogskoven; now it is Krogskogen. The owners originally called themselves Kroken; Anders and Hans Kroken were the regularly recurring names... Continue reading book >>

Mary By: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1832-1910)

Mary by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal constraints that shape them. Set in rural Norway during the late 19th century, the story revolves around the titular character, Mary, and her struggle for independence in a patriarchal society.

The book opens with Mary, a spirited and independent young woman, questioning the traditional roles imposed on women. She dreams of achieving personal and professional fulfillment, far beyond the limited options available to her. Bjørnson skillfully portrays Mary's inner conflict as she grapples with societal expectations while yearning to break free from them.

One of the central themes in the book is the clash between individual desires and societal norms. Despite Mary's aspirations, she finds herself caught between the expectations of her family, her community, and her lover, Paul. Through Mary's character, Bjørnson delves into the limitations imposed on women at that time, highlighting the unfulfilled potential and stifled dreams that many faced.

The novel also explores the complexities of love and relationships. Mary's relationship with Paul serves as a contrasting example to societal norms, as their connection transcends traditional boundaries. However, even their love is not immune to the pressures of society, and their story becomes entangled in the larger web of social expectations.

Bjørnson's writing is captivating and rich in descriptive detail. His vivid descriptions of the Norwegian landscape create a strong sense of place, immersing the reader in the beauty and isolation of the rural setting. Additionally, his elegant prose adeptly conveys the emotional depth of the characters and their internal struggles.

While some readers may find the novel's pace slower than contemporary works, Bjørnson's deliberate approach serves to highlight the internal battles that Mary endures. The introspective nature of the narrative allows for deeper exploration of themes such as gender roles, societal pressures, and personal freedom.

Mary is a poignant and deeply introspective novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson's masterful storytelling and his thought-provoking exploration of gender dynamics make this timeless classic a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of human relationships and the societal structures that shape them.

First Page:

THE NOVELS OF BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON

Edited by EDMUND GOSSE

VOLUME XIII

THE NOVELS OF BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON Edited by EDMUND GOSSE Fcap. 8vo, cloth 3s. net.

Synnöve Solbakken. Arne. A Happy Boy. The Fisher Lass. The Bridal March, & A Day. Magnhild, & Dust. Captain Mansana, & Mother's Hands. Absalom's Hair, & A Painful Memory. In God's Way. (2 vols.) The Heritage of the Kurts. (2 vols.) Mary.

LONDON WILLIAM HEINEMANN 21 Bedford Street, W. C.

MARY

BY BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON

Translated from the Norwegian by MARY MORISON

LONDON WILLIAM HEINEMANN 1909

THE HOMESTEAD AND THE RACE

The coast line of the south of Norway is very irregular. This is the work of the mountains and rivers. The former end in hillocks and headlands, off which often lie islands; the latter have dug out valleys and end in fjords or smaller inlets.

In one of these inlets, known as "Kroken" (the nook), lies the homestead. The original name of the place was Krokskogen. In the documents of the Danish government officials this was transformed into Krogskoven; now it is Krogskogen. The owners originally called themselves Kroken; Anders and Hans Kroken were the regularly recurring names... Continue reading book >>

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