Washington Square
Washington Square
EGP350.00
Book Summary
| Washington Square marks the culmination of James’s apprentice period as a novelist. With sharply focused attention upon just four principal characters, James provides an acute analysis of middle-class manners and behaviour in the New York of the 1870’s, a period of great change in the life of the city. This change is explored through the device of setting the novel’s action during the 1840s, similarly a period of considerable turbulence as the United States experienced the onset of rapid commercial and industrial expansion. Through the relationships between Austin Sloper, a celebrated physician, and his sister Lavinia Penniman, his daughter Catherine, and Catherine’s suitor, Morris Townsend, James observes the contemporary scene as a site of competing styles and performances where authentic expression cannot be articulated or is subject to suppression. |
Language: English
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Tor Fantasy (2001)
ISBN-10: 9781840224276
ISBN-13: 9781840224276
Genre: Classics
Size: 10.4 cm x 16.8 cm
Shipping Weight: 40 grams
Condition: New
Washington Square
Washington Square Book Description
Washington Square marks Henry James’s final work as an apprentice novelist, offering a sharp look at New York’s middle‑class society in the 1870s. The story follows four main characters—physician Austin Sloper, his sister Lavinia Penniman, his daughter Catherine, and her suitor Morris Townsend—while the novel’s setting shifts back to the turbulent 1840s. This dual timeline lets James explore rapid commercial growth and the clash of personal ambition with societal expectations. Readers will discover how authentic expression struggles against the strict performances demanded by family and society.
Throughout the narrative, James uses intimate dialogue and precise detail to reveal each character’s hidden motives. Meanwhile, Catherine’s choice between love and duty becomes a mirror for the larger cultural shift of the era. Moreover, the novel’s tight focus on just four personalities creates an intense psychological portrait that still feels fresh today. Fans of classic literature will enjoy the blend of social critique and personal drama that defines this timeless work.
Key Features of Washington Square
Readers can expect a compact paperback of 176 pages, making the story easy to carry and read in short sessions. Additionally, the book is published by Tor Fantasy (2001) and carries the ISBN‑10 and ISBN‑13 9781840224276, ensuring a reliable edition. The size—10.4 cm × 16.8 cm—and a light shipping weight of 40 grams add to its convenience. Furthermore, the text is in clear English, suitable for both classic lovers and new readers seeking an accessible entry into Henry James’s world.
Inside, the novel delivers a vivid depiction of 19th‑century New York life, from bustling streets to quiet domestic rooms. Also, the interplay of social class, gender expectations, and personal desire provides fertile ground for discussion and analysis. Because the story balances romance with sharp social observation, it works well for book clubs, academic courses, or any reader who enjoys layered storytelling.
Why Read This Book?
Many readers choose Washington Square for its timeless exploration of love versus obligation. The novel’s clear, focused cast lets you connect deeply with each character’s struggle. Meanwhile, James’s elegant prose invites you to practice careful reading while enjoying an engaging plot. Additionally, the book offers a window into a pivotal era of American history, making it both an enjoyable story and a valuable cultural snapshot.
Furthermore, the themes of independence, parental influence, and societal pressure remain relevant today. Therefore, whether you are a student, a classic enthusiast, or simply searching for a compelling read, Washington Square provides insight and entertainment in equal measure. Readers will leave the book with a deeper understanding of how personal choices echo larger social forces.
About This Book
Language: English
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Tor Fantasy (2001)
ISBN‑10: 9781840224276
ISBN‑13: 9781840224276
Genre: Classics
Size: 10.4 cm × 16.8 cm
Shipping Weight: 40 grams
Condition: New
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