'Celestina' Summary

Celestina by Charlotte Turner Smith is a Gothic novel published in 1791. It tells the story of Celestina, a young woman who is adopted by a wealthy family after her parents are killed in a shipwreck. Celestina grows up to be a beautiful and intelligent young woman, but her life is turned upside down when she discovers the truth about her parentage.

Celestina's real father was a nobleman who abandoned her mother and married another woman. When Celestina's father dies, his legitimate son inherits the title and estate, leaving Celestina and her mother with nothing.

Celestina's mother is determined to restore her daughter to her rightful place in society. She seeks out the help of a mysterious stranger, Vincenzo, who promises to help Celestina claim her inheritance. However, Vincenzo's motives are not entirely pure, and Celestina soon finds herself caught in a web of intrigue and deceit.

Vincenzo tells Celestina that her father had intended to leave her his estate, but that his wife had prevented him from doing so. He promises to help Celestina reclaim her inheritance, but only if she agrees to marry him. Celestina is reluctant to agree, but she is desperate to help her mother.

Celestina and Vincenzo marry, and they move to the family estate. However, Celestina soon discovers that Vincenzo is a cruel and tyrannical husband. He keeps her locked in the castle and abuses her both physically and emotionally.

One day, Celestina meets a handsome young man named Willoughby. Willoughby is immediately smitten with Celestina, and the two fall in love. However, their love is forbidden, as Celestina is married to Vincenzo.

Celestina and Willoughby plot to escape from the castle and elope. However, Vincenzo discovers their plan and imprisons Willoughby. Celestina is heartbroken, but she refuses to give up hope. She eventually manages to escape from the castle and rescue Willoughby.

Celestina and Willoughby flee to France, where they are finally able to marry and live happily ever after.