53 pages • 1 hour read
Herland
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Book Brief
147
Novel • Fiction
Unidentified, isolated region • Early 20th century
1915
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, three men—Van, Jeff, and Terry—discover an isolated, utopian society populated entirely by women. They are initially captured but later learn about the community's history, culture, and parthenogenesis. The men struggle to adapt, leading to relationships with varying degrees of success. The novel critiques patriarchy and highlights the women's achievements in a society free from male domination. The source material features depictions of sexual assault and uses outdated, offensive terms for Indigenous peoples.
Contemplative
Informative
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
23,623 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is lauded for its pioneering exploration of feminist utopia and gender roles, praised for its imaginative narrative and sharp social commentary. However, some critics find its characters one-dimensional and the prose dated. Despite these issues, it remains a significant and thought-provoking work in feminist literature.
Who Should Read Herland?
Readers who would enjoy Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman are typically interested in early feminist literature, utopian societies, and critiques of gender roles. Comparable to readers of Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale and Ursula K. Le Guin's The Left Hand of Darkness, they seek thought-provoking narratives that challenge societal norms.
23,623 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Terry O. Nicholson
Terry O. Nicholson
A wealthy and adventurous explorer who embodies traditional masculinity, often clashing with the values of Herland and creating conflict among the trio.
Jeff Margrave
Jeff Margrave
A sentimental doctor who appreciates the unique culture of Herland and forms a romantic connection with one of its inhabitants, differing from Terry's approach.
Ellador
Ellador
A smart and adventurous woman from Herland who develops a deep bond with Van, challenging his previous notions and standing firm in her beliefs about relationships.
Alima
Alima
A strong and fearless woman from Herland who has a tumultuous relationship with Terry, highlighting differences in cultural understanding and expectations.
Celis
Celis
A Herland woman with a love for nature who forms a happy and fulfilling relationship with Jeff, embracing their cultural differences.
Somel, Zava, and Moadine
Somel, Zava, and Moadine
The patient and intelligent tutors assigned to teach Van, Jeff, and Terry, offering insights into Herland's society and facilitating their understanding of the new culture.
The Colonels
The Colonels
The middle-aged women who manage and govern Herland, exuding leadership and competence while overseeing the interactions between the men and Herland.
147
Novel • Fiction
Unidentified, isolated region • Early 20th century
1915
Adult
18+ years
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