A Lady of Quality

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Nov 2019 · Good Press

About this ebook

Frances Hodgson Burnett's 'A Lady of Quality' is a captivating novel that explores themes of social class, love, and redemption in Victorian England. The story follows the protagonist, Clorinda, a spirited young woman who defies societal norms to assert her independence and challenge the constraints of her upbringing. Burnett's elegant prose and intricate character development provide a rich tapestry of emotions and motivations, drawing the reader into a world where personal growth and self-discovery are paramount. This novel is a prime example of the Victorian domestic fiction genre, characterized by its focus on the inner lives of women and their struggles for agency and identity within a patriarchal society. The intricate plot twists and turns keep readers engaged until the final satisfying conclusion.

About the author

Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote for children and adults, publishing both plays and novels. She was born in Manchester, England, on November 24, 1849. Her father, who owned a furniture store, died when she was only four years old. Her mother struggled to keep the family business running while trying to raise five children. Finally, because of the failing Manchester economy, the family sold the store and immigrated to the United States. In 1865 they settled just outside of Knoxville, Tennessee. Hoping to offset her family's continuing financial troubles, Burnett began to submit her stories to women's magazines. She was immediately successful. In the late 1860s her stories were published in nearly every popular American magazine. Burnett helped to support her family with income from the sale of her stories, even saving enough to finance a trip back to England, where she stayed for over a year. In 1879, Burnett published her first stories for children; two of her most popular are A Little Princess and The Secret Garden. In contrast to an extremely successful career, Burnett's personal life held many challenges. Her son Lionel was diagnosed with tuberculosis at age 15, from which he never recovered. His death inspired several stories about dead or dying children. Burnett lived her later years on Long Island, New York. She died in 1924.