An early feminist novel set in South Africa in 1883, this book is an interesting and unusual literary work. It is a generic hybrid in that in some ways it is new woman fiction whilst also having many other elements such as Dickensian farce, spiritual musings, gothic elements and melodrama. It follows three central characters from their childhood in South Africa to their adults lives exploring their development and ideas as well as their love interests and encounters with other interesting characters on the way.
In this podcast we discuss the themes of the novel, a little of Schreiner’s life and attitudes and some of the issues that arise in the book.
We do give a warning that there is mention of child death in the discussion. We also mention the issue of the racist terms that were used in South Africa at the time - although these are not explicitly said.
We hope you enjoy this podcast. For extra content, please do join us on social media on Facebook and Instagram for more information about women writers that have gone before us.
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