The Wicker-Work Woman

Name: The Wicker-Work Woman
Author: Anatole France

In this novella, France explores the themes of oppression and liberation through the story of a woman who is trapped in a life of servitude and drudgery. The protagonist, a young woman named Claire, is forced to work as a wicker-worker, creating intricate and beautiful designs for the wealthy elite. Despite her hardships, Claire finds solace in her work and begins to dream of a different life. As she becomes more confident and assertive, Claire starts to question the societal norms that have held her back and begins to envision a future where she is free to make her own choices. Through Claire's journey, France critiques the social and economic inequalities of his time and offers a vision of a more just and equitable society.

By Anatole France · First published 1908 · Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure · 19 chapters · 67,694 words

First lines

In his study M. Bergeret, professor of literature at the University, was preparing his lesson on the eighth book of the _Æneid_ to the shrill mechanical accompaniment of the piano, on which, close by, his daughters were practising a difficult exercise. M. Bergeret's room possessed only one window, but this was a large one, and filled up one whole side. It admitted, however, more draught than light, for the sashes were ill-fitting and the panes darkened by a high contiguous wall. M. Bergeret's table, pushed close against this window, caught the dismal rays of niggard daylight that filtered through. As a matter of fact this study, where the professor polished and repolished his fine, scholarly phrases, was nothing more than a shapeless cranny, or rather a double recess, behind the framework of the main staircase which, spreading out most inconsiderately in a great curve towards the window, left only room on either side for two useless, churlish corners.

What this Textopian page supports

The Wicker-Work Woman is listed on Textopian as a novel by Anatole France, dated 1908 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Anatole France
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure, Satire
Length: 67,694 words
Structure: 19 chapters, 887 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Fantasy — The book's primary premise centers around a fantastical creature, the wicker-work woman.
Romance — Elements of romantic relationships play a significant role in the narrative.
Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a journey which includes various adventurous events.
Satire — The author employs satire and irony to criticize certain aspects of society.