The Massarenes

 

Title The Massarenes
Author Ouida
Genre Drama, Fiction, Romance, Social Criticism, Tragedy
Format Digital

 

+ 100 Total Pages

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Book Description

The Massarenes (1887) is a novel by Ouida that explores themes of passion, societal expectations, and personal sacrifice. Set in Italy, the story follows the Massarene family, particularly the tragic figure of the young woman, Ginevra, who is caught between love, duty, and the strictures of her aristocratic family. As she navigates a world of high society, Ginevra must deal with the conflicts between her desires and the pressures imposed upon her by her social standing and family loyalty. Through her character, Ouida delves into the complexities of love and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of personal happiness.

 

About Author

Ouida

Ouida (1839–1908), born Marie Louise de la Ramée, was a British novelist and short story writer known for her dramatic and romantic tales, often featuring aristocratic protagonists and lavish settings. She was highly popular in the late 19th century, though her works have since become somewhat less well-known.

Ouida’s novels frequently explore themes of love, social class, and the consequences of individual choices, often set against the backdrop of European high society. Her most famous works include Under Two Flags (1867), a story of love and heroism set in the French Foreign Legion, and The Nun’s Story (1883), which delves into the emotional struggles of a young woman within a convent.

Her writing, often criticized for its melodramatic and sentimental style, remains a notable part of Victorian literature, with her books becoming popular in their time due to their vivid descriptions and high-society appeal. She was also an outspoken critic of the social issues of her day, particularly with regard to animal cruelty and the treatment of women.