Plebeian by Carolyn Wells (1925)
The narrative follows Lucinda, a young woman with unconventional tastes, who prefers the company of less privileged children over the refined elite. Her inclination towards the "ill-behaved" and "poor" challenges societal norms and expectations regarding class and propriety. Lucinda's actions provoke disapproval from her peers, who advocate for mingling only within higher social circles. The story explores themes of class disparity, societal judgment, and the innocence of childhood, contrasting the carefree nature of the children with the rigid expectations of the upper class. As Lucinda navigates her relationships and societal pressures, her choices reflect a deeper commentary on the value of authenticity versus social status. The tension between her desires and societal expectations drives the narrative, ultimately questioning the true meaning of refinement and the importance of genuine connections over superficial ones.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1925 · Genre: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance · 69 words
First lines
Lucinda's tastes are so depraved; She likes to play and romp With children poor and ill-behaved, Who boast no style or pomp.
Their costumes are not quite correct, They have no pretty tricks; Lucinda! pray be more select, In higher circles mix.
What this Textopian page supports
Plebeian is listed on Textopian as a short story by Carolyn Wells, dated 1925 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Carolyn Wells
- Date: 1925 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance
- Length: 69 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Plebeian by Carolyn Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Plebeian?
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Fiction — The book is a narrative story created by the author.
- Historical Fiction — The book is set in a historical period with imagined characters and events.
- Romance — The book involves the theme of love and romantic relationships between characters.
Tags
mystery · detective · crime · suspense · thriller · fiction · literature · 20th century · American · social class · intrigue · plot twist