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The Son's Veto (from Life Little Ironies) hosted by Connie
By Bionic Jean , Moderator · 113 posts · 22 views
By Bionic Jean , Moderator · 113 posts · 22 views
last updated Jun 14, 2024 03:26PM
The Fiddler of the Reels (from Life's Little Ironies) hosted by Bridget
By Bionic Jean , Moderator · 71 posts · 23 views
By Bionic Jean , Moderator · 71 posts · 23 views
last updated Dec 31, 2023 03:35PM
What Members Thought

As with Hardy's novels, this short story is a study in how arbitrary class lines and distinctions affect the lives of ordinary people. We still have this, even today. Have you ever felt awkward because you didn't quite fit the educational or financial standards of the group you were in? We feel awkward--they suffered, were excluded, and made life-altering decisions based on these elements.
A very enjoyable read with the Hardy group. ...more
A very enjoyable read with the Hardy group. ...more

Jun 10, 2024
Connie G
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short-stories,
thomas-hardy
"The Son's Veto" is a short story about the rigid Victorian class divides that limited the options open to people. The story also shows how women in the patriarchal 19th Century often had little voice in making important decisions about their life. People sometimes sacrificed their own happiness and fulfillment because they were following social rules and the expectations of others.
The story was first published in "The Illustrated London News" in 1891. It was later included in Thomas Hardy's col ...more
The story was first published in "The Illustrated London News" in 1891. It was later included in Thomas Hardy's col ...more

Excellent short story examines class differences and lack of options for Victorian women. I'm always amazed at the short story form. So much gets packed into few pages. This one was wonderful. I read it with the Works of Thomas Hardy group here on GR. A slow read, just a few pages a day, with great discussions. Check it out at this link /topic/show/...
...more

Thomas Hardy describes the circumscribed life that follows a servant's choice to marry the local vicar. Beautifully written. ...more

Jun 09, 2024
Janelle
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short-stories-and-essays