A Modern Instance
Enriched edition. A Realist Portrait of a Woman's Struggle with Marriage, Class Constraints, and Personal AgencyBy William Dean Howells
Length18h 5m
About this audiobook
In William Dean Howells' novel 'A Modern Instance', we are taken on a journey through the life of a young woman named Marcia Gaylord who is trapped in a loveless marriage. Howells' realistic and straightforward writing style captures the essence of 19th-century American realism, shedding light on the moral dilemmas and societal constraints faced by women of the time. The novel's exploration of class differences, marriage, and personal agency makes it a significant work in the literary canon of the era. Howells' attention to detail and nuanced character development make 'A Modern Instance' a compelling and thought-provoking read. William Dean Howells, a prominent figure in the realist movement, was known for his social commentary and keen observations of American life. His own experiences as an editor and critic likely influenced his writing of this novel, which critiques the social norms and values of his time. 'A Modern Instance' is recommended to readers interested in 19th-century American literature, women's studies, and social realism, offering a poignant portrait of a woman's struggle for independence.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreAction and Adventure, General Fiction
Length18 hrs 5 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateJul 4, 2017
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
8A Modern Instance (pt. 4)
2Synopsis
9A Modern Instance (pt. 5)
3Historical Context
10A Modern Instance (pt. 6)
4Author Biography
11A Modern Instance (pt. 7)
5A Modern Instance (pt. 1)
12Analysis
Show all chaptersShow less
6A Modern Instance (pt. 2)
13Reflection
7A Modern Instance (pt. 3)
14Memorable Quotes
Venetian LifeWilliam Dean Howells11h 12m$2 · $0.00
The Landlord at Lion's Head — CompleteWilliam Dean Howells13h 47m$2 · $0.00
Evening DressWilliam Dean Howells2h 1m$2 · $0.00
Familiar Spanish TravelsWilliam Dean Howells7h 19m$2 · $0.00
Fennel and RueWilliam Dean Howells3h 56m$2 · $0.00
Roman Holidays, and OthersWilliam Dean Howells8h 46m$2 · $0.00
Mrs. FarrellWilliam Dean Howells6h 17m$2 · $0.00
Roundabout to Boston (from Literary Friends and Acquaintance)William Dean Howells42m$1 · $0.00
The Albany Depot : a FarceWilliam Dean Howells2h 10m$2 · $0.00
A Traveler from AltruriaWilliam Dean Howells7h 59m$2 · $0.00
An Open-Eyed Conspiracy; An Idyl of SaratogaWilliam Dean Howells4h 3m$2 · $0.00
The Story of a PlayWilliam Dean Howells5h 40m$2 · $0.00
The Entire March Family TrilogyWilliam Dean Howells40h 13m$2 · $0.00
Criticism and FictionWilliam Dean Howells3h 1m$2 · $0.00
PoemsWilliam Dean Howells4h 14m$2 · $0.00
Imaginary InterviewsWilliam Dean Howells9h 44m$1 · $0.00
Five O'Clock Tea: FarceWilliam Dean Howells2h 4m$2 · $0.00
A Fearful Responsibility and Other StoriesWilliam Dean Howells5h 31m$2 · $0.00
The Editor's Relations with the Young Contributor (from Literature and Life)William Dean Howells28m$2 · $0.00
A Counterfeit Presentment; and, The Parlour CarWilliam Dean Howells3h 1m$2 · $0.00
EmberJeffrey Wilson, Brian Andrews13h 58m$23
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Heart of IronC. M. Alongi15h 24m$30
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RiversnowTess Thompson8h 11m$20
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