Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads

The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne   By: (1815-1882)

Book cover

In "The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne" by Anthony Trollope, readers are transported to a quaint village nestled in the English countryside. The novel revolves around the life of a young woman named Mary Godolphin, the daughter of the local parson, and follows her journey through various trials and tribulations.

One of the remarkable aspects of Trollope's writing in this novel is his ability to vividly capture the essence of rural life. The author's descriptive prose brings the village of Oxney Colne to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of the countryside. The meticulous attention to detail creates a nostalgic atmosphere that enhances the overall reading experience.

The character of Mary Godolphin is undoubtedly the soul of the story. As a parson's daughter, she is raised with a strong sense of duty, morality, and love for her community. Trollope beautifully portrays her internal struggles as she grapples with conflicting desires, torn between conforming to societal expectations and following her own ambitions. Mary's complexity and growth throughout the novel make her a relatable and compelling protagonist.

Moreover, Trollope skillfully weaves in several social and political themes that were prevalent during the Victorian era. He explores the constraints imposed on women in society, the struggles of the lower classes, and the changing dynamics of the Church of England. These themes add depth and substance to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple coming-of-age tale.

Despite its many strengths, "The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne" may not be for every reader. Trollope's writing style can be slow-paced at times, with lengthy descriptions and dialogues that might test the patience of those accustomed to more fast-paced narratives. Additionally, the numerous characters and subplots may initially feel overwhelming, but as the story progresses, they all interweave to create a rich tapestry of village life.

Overall, "The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne" is a delightful and thought-provoking novel that showcases Trollope's talent as a writer. The meticulous portrayal of rural England, the complex protagonist, and the exploration of social themes make this book a worthwhile read for those who appreciate historical fiction and character-driven narratives. Trollope's ability to transport readers to another time and place while addressing universal human experiences is what makes him a master storyteller.

First Page:

This etext was produced by David Price, email ccx074@coventry.ac.uk, from the 1864 Chapman and Hall "Tales of all Countries" edition.

THE PARSON'S DAUGHTER OF OXNEY COLNE

by Anthony Trollope

The prettiest scenery in all England and if I am contradicted in that assertion, I will say in all Europe is in Devonshire, on the southern and south eastern skirts of Dartmoor, where the rivers Dart, and Avon, and Teign form themselves, and where the broken moor is half cultivated, and the wild looking upland fields are half moor. In making this assertion I am often met with much doubt, but it is by persons who do not really know the locality. Men and women talk to me on the matter, who have travelled down the line of railway from Exeter to Plymouth, who have spent a fortnight at Torquay, and perhaps made an excursion from Tavistock to the convict prison on Dartmoor. But who knows the glories of Chagford? Who has walked through the parish of Manaton? Who is conversant with Lustleigh Cleeves and Withycombe in the moor? Who has explored Holne Chase? Gentle reader, believe me that you will be rash in contradicting me, unless you have done these things.

There or thereabouts I will not say by the waters of which little river it is washed is the parish of Oxney Colne. And for those who wish to see all the beauties of this lovely country, a sojourn in Oxney Colne would be most desirable, seeing that the sojourner would then be brought nearer to all that he would wish to visit, than at any other spot in the country... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books