Heroines of Fiction by William Dean Howells is a fascinating exploration of the portrayal of women in classic literature. Howells delves into various heroines from novels such as Emma, Hester Prynne, and Jane Eyre, analyzing their character traits, societal roles, and the impact they have had on literature and society as a whole.

The author's insights are thought-provoking and well-researched, offering readers a deeper understanding of the complexities of female characters in fiction. Howells challenges traditional gender stereotypes and sheds light on the importance of strong, independent female protagonists in shaping our perceptions of women in literature.

While some readers may find Howells' writing style to be a bit dense at times, the overall message of the book is clear and impactful. Heroines of Fiction is a must-read for anyone interested in feminist literature, literary analysis, or simply enjoys exploring the rich and diverse world of fictional heroines.

Book Description:
This two-volume work includes heroines from the works of Eliot, Trollope, Hardy, Harte, Austen, Edgeworth, Scott, Dickens, Hawthorne, E. Bronte, Thackeray, and others. These studies of nineteenth-century literature were by a critical light of the time.