The Sentimentalism of Divorce
The Sentimentalism of Divorce is a book by G.K. Chesterton that explores the societal and cultural implications of divorce, particularly in relation to sentimentality and emotionalism. The author argues that divorce has become too easy and too commonplace, and that it often stems from a lack of commitment and an overemphasis on personal happiness at the expense of social responsibility. Chesterton also discusses the role of religion and morality in marriage and divorce, and offers suggestions for how to strengthen marriages and reduce the incidence of divorce. Overall, The Sentimentalism of Divorce is a thought-provoking work that challenges readers to think critically about one of society's most pressing issues.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1908 · Genre: Essay, Social Commentary, Philosophy · 1,657 words
First lines
Divorce is a thing which the newspapers now not only advertise, but advocate, almost as if it were a pleasure in itself. It may be, indeed, that all the flowers and festivities will now be transferred from the fashionable wedding to the fashionable divorce. A superb iced and frosted divorce-cake will be provided for the feast, and in military circles will be cut with the co-respondent's sword. A dazzling display of divorce presents will be laid out for the inspection of the company, watched by a detective dressed as an ordinary divorce guest. Perhaps the old divorce breakfast will be revived; anyhow, toasts will be drunk, the guests will assemble on the doorstep to see the husband and wife go off in opposite directions; and all will go merry as a divorce-court bell. All this, though to some it might seem a little fanciful, would really be far less fantastic than the sort of things that are really said on the subject. I am not going to discuss the depth and substance of that subject.
What this Textopian page supports
The Sentimentalism of Divorce is listed on Textopian as a short story by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Essay, Social Commentary, Philosophy, Satire, Non-fiction
- Length: 1,657 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Essay — The work is a critical essay discussing societal views on divorce and marriage, using logical arguments and examples.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques contemporary societal norms and attitudes towards marriage and divorce, reflecting on broader social implications.
- Philosophy — The work explores philosophical ideas about institutions, emotions, and societal structures, questioning the nature of marriage and divorce.
- Satire — The writing employs satirical elements to mock the sentimentalism surrounding divorce and marriage in society.
Tags
divorce · sentimentalism · relationships · marriage · love · society · family · emotions · philosophy · critique · human nature · morality