42 pages • 1 hour read
Belinda
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Book Brief
544
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1800s
1801
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Belinda by Maria Edgeworth, young Belinda Portman, encouraged by her aunt, goes to live with Lord and Lady Delacour to find a suitable husband. She quickly uncovers the Delacours' frailties, befriends Lady Delacour, and helps mend her dysfunctional family. Belinda's romantic journey involves misunderstandings with Clarence Hervey and encounters with other suitors, ultimately choosing a genuine love. Sensitive topics include substance abuse, dueling injuries, and fostering relationships under complicated circumstances.
Informative
Romantic
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
3,699 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Belinda by Maria Edgeworth is praised for its strong female protagonist and intricate plot, exploring themes of social class, race, and gender. However, some readers find its moralizing tone and length to be drawbacks. The novel's rich character development and social critique garner positive attention despite occasional criticisms of pacing. MLA
Who Should Read Belinda?
A reader who enjoys Belinda by Maria Edgeworth is likely fascinated by early 19th-century social commentary, female agency, and romance. Similar to readers of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre, they appreciate nuanced character development and the exploration of societal norms.
3,699 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lady Delacour
Lady Delacour
A charismatic yet troubled woman of high social standing, confounded by personal trials and a mysterious ailment. Her interactions with Belinda reveal her capacity for change and familial reconciliation.
Clarence Hervey
Clarence Hervey
A charming and initially self-absorbed gentleman, who undergoes personal growth as he learns to appreciate genuine emotion and authenticity through his relationship with Belinda. His journey reflects the social conventions of his time.
544
Novel • Fiction
London, England • 1800s
1801
Adult
18+ years
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