74 pages • 2 hours read
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
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Book Brief
576
Novel • Fiction
England • 1820s
1848
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë tells the story of Gilbert Markham, a gentleman farmer, who recounts his life’s major events to his friend, Halford. Gilbert falls in love with Helen Graham, a mysterious young widow who moves into the dilapidated Wildfell Hall with her son. Through Helen's secret journal, Gilbert learns about her harrowing marriage to the abusive and alcoholic Arthur Huntingdon, and the reasons behind her secluded life.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
120,947 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anne Brontë's The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is lauded for its strong proto-feminist themes and realistic portrayal of marriage and alcoholism. Critics commend its bold narrative and complex characters, though some find its moralistic tone heavy-handed. The novel's forward-thinking stance remains impactful, but its darker content can feel oppressive to some readers.
Who Should Read The Tenant of Wildfell Hall?
Readers who revel in Victorian literature, complex character development, and themes of social criticism would enjoy The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. Fans of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë and Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy will appreciate Brontë's exploration of women's struggles and moral fortitude.
120,947 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
576
Novel • Fiction
England • 1820s
1848
Adult
18+ years
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