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The Invisible Woman summary
Brief summary
The Invisible Woman by Claire Tomalin is a captivating biography that sheds light on the life of Charles Dickens's secret lover, Ellen Ternan. It delves into the hidden aspects of their relationship and the challenges faced by women in Victorian society.
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The Invisible Woman
Summary of key ideas
The Untold Story of Nelly Ternan
In The Invisible Woman by Claire Tomalin, we are introduced to Nelly Ternan, an actress who remains largely unknown despite her significant role in the life of the renowned English writer, Charles Dickens. The book begins with the fateful moment when Nelly, at the tender age of eighteen, meets the much older Dickens during a production of The Frozen Deep in 1857. Their encounter sparks a clandestine love affair that would last until Dickens's untimely death.
Tomalin paints a vivid picture of Victorian society, where such a relationship was not only frowned upon but also had the potential to ruin Dickens's reputation. To keep their love hidden, Nelly and Dickens, along with her family, lived a life of secrecy, constantly moving from place to place. Despite the challenges, Nelly remains devoted to Dickens, even as he continues to maintain a public image as a happily married man.
Life in the Shadows
The middle portion of The Invisible Woman delves deeper into Nelly's life. We see her grappling with the constraints of being Dickens's mistress, unable to enjoy the public life or recognition she deserves. Her acting career, once promising, is stifled, and she is forced to live in the shadow of her famous lover. Nelly, however, is not just a passive figure. She is portrayed as a woman of strength and intelligence, who maintains her dignity despite the difficult circumstances.
Tomalin also explores the impact of this secret relationship on Dickens's public persona and his literary works. The author suggests that Nelly served as an inspiration for several of Dickens's later characters, including the young heroines in Great Expectations and Our Mutual Friend. Nelly's influence on his writing, however, remains largely unacknowledged.
The Aftermath
In the latter part of the book, Tomalin narrates the aftermath of Dickens's death on Nelly and her family. Although Dickens leaves her a substantial annuity in his will, Nelly struggles to secure her place in society. She marries a school headmaster, George Wharton Robinson, and they live a quiet life away from the spotlight. Despite their marriage, Nelly continues to be known as 'the invisible woman', her association with Dickens overshadowing her own identity.
Tomalin's meticulous research and empathetic portrayal of Nelly Ternan in The Invisible Woman offers a poignant insight into the life of a woman who sacrificed her public identity for a love that could never be openly acknowledged. The book also serves as a reminder of the many women throughout history whose stories have been obscured by the lives of famous men.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, The Invisible Woman is a compelling exploration of the complex relationship between Charles Dickens and Nelly Ternan. It sheds light on the challenges faced by women in Victorian society and the consequences of being associated with a famous man. Nelly's story, as told by Tomalin, invites us to reconsider the roles of women in history and the ways their contributions have been overlooked and forgotten.
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What is The Invisible Woman about?
The Invisible Woman by Claire Tomalin delves into the hidden life of Charles Dickens's mistress, Ellen Ternan. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Tomalin uncovers the untold story of a woman who lived in the shadows, challenging our perceptions of one of the greatest literary figures in history.
The Invisible Woman Review
The Invisible Woman (1990) sheds light on the obscured life of Charles Dickens' mistress, Ellen Ternan, offering a fresh perspective on Victorian society and gender roles. Here's why this book captivates readers:
- Unveiling the untold story of Ellen Ternan, the book reveals a hidden figure in literary history, adding complexity to our understanding of Dickens.
- Through meticulous research and historical context, the book provides a rich portrayal of Ternan's struggles and triumphs, offering insight into her resilience and agency.
- The narrative's compelling portrayal of Ternan's journey and her impact on Dickens' life makes this a fascinating exploration of love, secrecy, and societal norms.
Who should read The Invisible Woman?
Readers who are interested in untold stories of women in history
Those who enjoy biographies and want to learn about the life of Nelly Ternan
People who appreciate insightful explorations of social norms and gender roles in the 19th century
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The Invisible Woman FAQs
What is the main message of The Invisible Woman?
The main message of The Invisible Woman emphasizes the overlooked contributions of women in Charles Dickens's life.
How long does it take to read The Invisible Woman?
Reading time for The Invisible Woman varies, while the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Invisible Woman a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Invisible Woman is worth reading for its insightful exploration of the hidden stories behind a famous author.
Who is the author of The Invisible Woman?
The author of The Invisible Woman is Claire Tomalin.
What to read after The Invisible Woman?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Invisible Woman, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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