A Singular Life

Name: A Singular Life
Author: Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward

The novel explores the life of a woman who rejects marriage and motherhood to pursue an independent career. The protagonist's decision sparks controversy and criticism from her family and community, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Through her struggles, the novel highlights the limited options available to women during the late 19th century and the societal pressures that restricted their choices.

By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1894 · Genre: Romance, Social Commentary, Drama · 30 chapters · 122,130 words

First lines

There were seven of them at the table that day, and they were talking about heredity. At least they were talking about whatever stood for heredity at the date of our history. The word had penetrated to religious circles at the time; but it was still interpreted with a free personal translation.

What this Textopian page supports

A Singular Life is listed on Textopian as a novel by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1894 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romance, Social Commentary, Drama, Religious Fiction, Historical Fiction
Length: 122,130 words
Structure: 30 chapters, 2,458 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for A Singular Life by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering A Singular Life?
How does this novel by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Romance first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Romance — Central love story and emotional relationships.
Social Commentary — Explores societal norms and critiques social issues.
Drama — Intense character development and emotional conflicts.
Religious Fiction — Themes of faith and spirituality are prominent.