58 pages • 1 hour read
Henry WoodEast Lynne
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1861A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
East Lynne by Ellen Wood revolves around Isabel Vane, the daughter of a financially ruined earl, who marries the lawyer Archibald Carlyle for stability. Misled by jealousy and misperceptions, she abandons her family for a man named Francis, only to face dire consequences. Eventually, Isabel returns incognito as a governess, regretful and seeking redemption. The narrative explores themes of gender, class, and morality. The book references the death of a child and the contemplation of suicide.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
East Lynne by Henry Wood is frequently lauded for its intricate plot and emotional depth, engaging readers with its themes of betrayal, redemption, and social critique. However, some find the melodramatic elements overdrawn and the pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a compelling read that reflects Victorian sensibilities and morals.
Who Should Read East Lynne?
Readers who enjoyed Pride and Prejudice or Jane Eyre will likely find East Lynne engaging. Fans of Victorian literature, intricate plots, and moral dilemmas are ideal. They appreciate themes of redemption, societal norms, and emotional depth within a melodramatic and suspenseful narrative.