This blog explores social attitudes in Jane Austen's time, discusses her novels, reviews forgotten 18th century novels, and throws some occasional shade at the modern academy. The introductory post is here. My "six simple questions for academics" post is here. |
This has been the case in many novels, some of which I’ve reviewed here, including: Anna, or Memoirs of a Welch Heiress (1785), Fanny or the Deserted Daughter (1792), Edward or various views of Human Nature (1798), Glenmore Abbey (1805), and There is a Secret, Find it Out! (1808). Therefore, I wanted to check out the novel titled Eliza Willis or History of a Natural Daughter to see if Eliza really was a natural daughter, or the misplaced daughter of an Earl, as these foundlings usually turn out to be. And yes, Emily Willis discovers who her parents are, and they are both from good families. But--shocker!-- they never got married. Mom gave birth in secret and went on to marry someone else.
This novel then, presents as its heroine a girl from the wrong side of the blanket, who must contend with being treated as being sexually available on account of her low status, who nonetheless is rewarded with a wealthy baronet for her husband. It is another entry into the genre of novels which center around chastity and reputation.