Their Wedding Journey   By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

Their Wedding Journey by William Dean Howells is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of marriage and society in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of a newlywed couple's journey from Boston to Niagara Falls, the story unfolds with a perfect blend of humor, drama, and social commentary.

The novel follows the newlyweds, Reverend Basil and Isabel March, as they navigate through the trials and tribulations of their honeymoon trip. From the moment they embark on their journey, the couple faces a multitude of challenges that test the strength of their relationship. Howells skillfully portrays their personalities and flaws, painting a realistic picture of the hurdles and compromises faced by married couples.

What sets this novel apart is Howells' distinct writing style and the depth of his characters. By alternating between the perspectives of Basil and Isabel, the author provides an insightful exploration of the contrasting male and female viewpoints on marriage. He delves into themes such as gender roles, societal expectations, and the balance between personal desires and marital obligations.

The narrative is also enhanced by the vivid descriptions of the various locations visited by the couple during their journey. Whether it's the bustling streets of Boston, the rustic charm of the New England countryside, or the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls, Howells paints each scene with exquisite detail, bringing the settings to life and immersing the reader in the story.

Furthermore, Howells masterfully incorporates humor throughout the novel, adding a light-hearted touch to the otherwise serious themes. The witty dialogues and satirical observations on human nature provide moments of levity, making the reading experience enjoyable and entertaining.

While the plot of Their Wedding Journey may seem simple on the surface, it offers a profound commentary on the institution of marriage and the struggles faced by couples in maintaining a fulfilling relationship. Howells' examination of societal norms and expectations remains relevant even today, making this novel a timeless classic.

Overall, Their Wedding Journey is a remarkable novel that showcases William Dean Howells' literary prowess. With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and poignant social commentary, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of marriage and society.

First Page:

They first met in Boston, but the match was made in Europe, where they afterwards saw each other; whither, indeed, he followed her; and there the match was also broken off. Why it was broken off, and why it was renewed after a lapse of years, is part of quite a long love story, which I do not think myself qualified to rehearse, distrusting my fitness for a sustained or involved narration; though I am persuaded that a skillful romancer could turn the courtship of Basil and Isabel March to excellent account. Fortunately for me, however, in attempting to tell the reader of the wedding journey of a newly married couple, no longer very young, to be sure, but still fresh in the light of their love, I shall have nothing to do but to talk of some ordinary traits of American life as these appeared to them, to speak a little of well known and easily accessible places, to present now a bit of landscape and now a sketch of character... Continue reading book >>