Discover timeless tales with the Umatilla Literary Society's Classics Book Club, where we explore the enduring stories that have shaped literature. This term we will read a classic that sometimes gets forgotten, Ann Brontë's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall." From August 2025 through November 2025 we will read approximately 15 chapters a month. Discover this lost treasurer of 19th Century Women's Literature. The first five to pre-register at the library may check-out a paperback copy long-term, for the duration of the book club. A digital copy is available here: https://mylakelibrary.overdrive.com/media/433295.
September Discussion: Chapters 18-32
Focus: Helen's diary begins, revealing her past and the early stages of her relationship with Arthur Huntingdon.
Discussion Points:
Helen's Voice: How does the shift to Helen's diary impact your understanding of her character? What new insights do you gain from her direct perspective?
Arthur Huntingdon: What are your initial impressions of Arthur Huntingdon? What qualities make him attractive to Helen at first, and what warning signs, if any, do you notice?
Love and Idealism: Helen enters her marriage with a strong sense of idealism about love and her ability to reform Arthur. Do you think her expectations are realistic? Why or why not?
The Role of Education: Helen is a well-educated woman. How does her education influence her perspective and her choices, particularly in contrast to other female characters?
Foreshadowing: Are there any instances of foreshadowing in these chapters that hint at the difficulties Helen will face in her marriage?
Breakdown was suggested by AI: Gemini.
