Evelina: Or the History of a Young Lady's Entrance into the World
Frances Burney
Dec 2020 · Good Press
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About this ebook
Frances Burney's "Evelina" is a seminal work in the canon of 18th-century English literature, celebrated for its vivid portrayal of a young woman's journey from innocence to experience in London society. Written in the form of letters, the novel employs an epistolary style that not only offers intimate insights into Evelina's thoughts and feelings but also critiques the rigid class structures and social mores of the time. Burney skillfully navigates themes of identity, female virtue, and social mobility, employing wit and irony to reveal the complexities of societal expectations. This reflects the emerging voice of women's literature during the Enlightenment, drawing readers into both the personal and social dilemmas faced by her protagonist. Frances Burney, a prominent figure in the literary landscape of her era, was influenced by her own experiences in both the literary and social spheres of London. Born into a family of intellectuals, Burney's keen observations of society, including her connections with notable literary figures such as Samuel Johnson and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, provided a rich backdrop for her writing. Her own struggles with societal constraints and her desire for independence resonate throughout "Evelina," making it both a personal and universal tale of female agency. "Evelina" is highly recommended for readers interested in the intricacies of gender and society during the 18th century. Burney'Äôs innovative narrative style, combined with her sharp social commentary, offers an engaging exploration of the challenges faced by women in a rapidly changing world. This timeless novel not only entertains but also invites critical reflection on the nature of identity and societal roles, making it essential reading for fans of classical literature.
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About the author
Frances ("Fanny") Burney 1752 - 1840 Frances Burney also known as Fanny Burney and, after her marriage, as Madame d'Arblay, was an English novelist, diarist and playwright. She was born on June 13, 1752 and wrote four novels (Evelina, Cecilia, Camilla and The Wanderer). Her first novel was written anonymously in 1778, without her father¿s knowledge or permission. After it became a literary success, she admitted to her father that she was the author. Her novels were read by many, including Jane Austen whose title Pride and Prejudice was formed from reading the last pages of Burney's novel, Cecilia. Burney is more well known for her journals. She kept a diary for 72 years. In these diaries she recounts a first-hand look at English society in the 18th Century. In 1810 when she suffered from breast pain, it was believed that she had breast cancer; she elected to have a mastectomy performed. This procedure is retold in her journals, and as there was no anesthesia at the time and she was conscious throughout, the entries for this mastectomy are very compelling. In 1793 Burney married General Alexandre d'Arblay, a French general to Lafayette. They had one child, Alexander. In her later years, Burney lived in Bath, England. She is buried there in Walcot Cemetery with her husband and son. Burney died on January 6, 1840 at 87 years of age.
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