The Lady of the Aroostook   By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

William Dean Howells' novel, The Lady of the Aroostook, takes readers on a captivating journey through the charming rural landscape of Aroostook County in Maine. Filled with delightful characters and poignant moments, this work paints a vivid picture of life in the late 19th century.

The story revolves around the character of Marcia Gaylord, a young woman from the city who finds herself unexpectedly married to the reserved and practical lawyer, Bartley Hubbard. The couple embarks on a honeymoon trip to Aroostook, an unfamiliar and rustic territory. As Marcia navigates the challenges of adapting to her new surroundings, we witness her transformation from a sheltered city girl to a resilient woman, capable of conquering any adversity life throws her way.

Howells' writing style is rich and evocative, painting an idyllic picture of the Aroostook landscape. His descriptions of the sprawling wilderness and the small, close-knit communities that inhabit it bring the setting to life. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as he skillfully captures the hardships and simple joys of rural life during that time.

One of the strengths of this novel is the depth of character development. Marcia is a complex and relatable protagonist, her thoughts and emotions laid bare for the reader to follow. We witness her growth and self-discovery, as well as her struggles with loyalty, love, and societal expectations. Howells skillfully portrays the nuances of human relationships, offering a nuanced exploration of marriage, friendship, and personal desires.

The supporting cast of characters adds depth to the narrative, each bringing a unique perspective to Marcia's journey. From the charming country doctor, Rowland Atherton, to the Durgin family, who embody the humorous side of rural life, the ensemble cast ensures there is never a dull moment.

Thematically, Howells explores the tension between city life and rural America, dissecting the disparities between the two settings. Through Marcia's eyes, the author makes incisive social commentaries, revealing the impact of societal expectations on individual freedom and fulfillment. This exploration adds layers of depth to the novel, elevating it beyond a mere love story.

However, amidst all the strengths, The Lady of the Aroostook does suffer from pacing issues at times. The narrative occasionally meanders, delving into unnecessary details that detract from the momentum of the story. While this attention to minute detail allows for a more immersive experience, it may discourage readers seeking a faster-paced narrative.

Overall, William Dean Howells' The Lady of the Aroostook is a charming and thought-provoking novel that showcases his immense talent as a writer. Through evocative imagery, complex characters, and societal critique, Howells transports readers to a forgotten time and place. Despite its occasional pacing issues, this novel will captivate those interested in exploring the intricacies of human emotion and the clash between opposing worlds.

First Page:

In the best room of a farm house on the skirts of a village in the hills of Northern Massachusetts, there sat one morning in August three people who were not strangers to the house, but who had apparently assembled in the parlor as the place most in accord with an unaccustomed finery in their dress. One was an elderly woman with a plain, honest face, as kindly in expression as she could be perfectly sure she felt, and no more; she rocked herself softly in the haircloth arm chair, and addressed as father the old man who sat at one end of the table between the windows, and drubbed noiselessly upon it with his stubbed fingers, while his lips, puckered to a whistle, emitted no sound. His face had that distinctly fresh shaven effect which once a week is the advantage of shaving no oftener: here and there, in the deeper wrinkles, a frosty stubble had escaped the razor. He wore an old fashioned, low black satin stock, over the top of which the linen of his unstarched collar contrived with difficulty to make itself seen; his high crowned, lead colored straw hat lay on the table before him. At the other end of the table sat a young girl, who leaned upon it with one arm, propping her averted face on her hand. The window was open beside her, and she was staring out upon the door yard, where the hens were burrowing for coolness in the soft earth under the lilac bushes; from time to time she put her handkerchief to her eyes... Continue reading book >>