The Odd Women by George Gissing is a Victoria novel that can make a feminist out of you in no time. Even if you are not interested in the history of the early feminist movement, this is a beautiful story that gives food for thoughts.
Dr. Madden is a man of his time. Being a father of six girls, he views them as beautiful creatures that are good for nothing. Of course, he proclaims his never-ending love for them and he is really quite fond of his girls, but it has never occurred to him that it is his duty as a father to make sure that they are knowledgeable enough to survive without a man in this world. He thinks that a woman’s place is at home and despises those who refuse to live according to this scenario. Dr. Madden even promises Alice that he is going to earn enough money, so that when he dies, his daughter wouldn’t live in poverty. Unfortunately, Dr. Madden dies and what he fears most comes true. Being completely unprepared for the real world, they don’t know what to do. The state of mind they find themselves in could be characterized as learned helplessness. These young women lack vigor and – frankly speaking – personality. It is partially their father’s fault, for he has never encouraged them to be something more than housewives.
Rhoda Nunn and Mary Barfoot have little in common with the Maddens. They are not satisfied with the role of a housewife! Independence is their goal as well as liberation of other women. They are considered odd women just because they don’t pursue a traditional lifestyle. It is difficult to imagine how the society treats them. Their relatives, friends, and acquaintances could break tires with them just because they live and behave differently. It is scary to stand against the majority. Even though they have their moments of weakness, neither Rhoda Nunn nor Mary Barfoot is ready to give up on their dream.
It is not easy to admit but the truth is that it is impossible to save everyone. Rhoda Nunn wants to help Monica, but the young woman is not ready. She is not that open-minded, free-spirited, and independent to be an odd woman. She doesn’t want to be different. Her sisters want to see her married and happy, so she agrees to marry the first respectable man she meets. It turns out to be a terrible mistake, for a marriage based on fear of being alone is not going to last long and if it does, it is not going to be happy.
The Odd Women is not a romantic novel we all know. It is sad, tragic, but beautiful nonetheless. If you want to learn more about the transformation of society and the beginning of the feminist movement, it is a must-read. One more reason to start reading this book right now is George Gissing’s wonderful writing style. There is beauty in every phrase.
