'Mrs. Armytage, or Female Domination' Summary

The novel tells the story of Mrs. Armytage, a wealthy widow who is determined to control every aspect of her family's lives. She is a domineering and manipulative woman who uses her wealth and social status to her advantage. When her son, Arthur, announces his engagement to a woman of lower social standing, Mrs. Armytage is furious. She does everything in her power to break up the engagement, but Arthur is determined to marry the woman he loves.

The novel is a critique of the rigid social hierarchy of Victorian England. Gore explores the themes of love, class, and social mobility. She also criticizes the hypocrisy of the upper class, who often preach about morality and family values while engaging in scandalous behavior.

Mrs. Armytage, or Female Domination is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Victorian upper class. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in 19th century literature and social history.

Here are some of the key themes of the novel:

• The power of women: The novel explores the power that women can wield in society, both for good and for evil. Mrs. Armytage is a powerful woman who uses her wealth and social status to control her family's lives. However, she is also a manipulative and destructive woman who ultimately causes her own downfall.
• The importance of love: The novel argues that love is more important than social class. Arthur and his fiancée are deeply in love, and they are willing to defy Mrs. Armytage in order to be together.
• The dangers of social hierarchy: The novel criticizes the rigid social hierarchy of Victorian England. Mrs. Armytage believes that people should only marry within their own social class, and she is horrified when her son falls in love with a woman who is beneath him. However, the novel argues that social class is an artificial construct, and that love is more important than any social hierarchy.

Mrs. Armytage, or Female Domination is a complex and nuanced novel that raises important questions about the role of women in society, the importance of love, and the dangers of social hierarchy. It is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that is sure to stay with readers long after they have finished it.