Old Mary Jones by Harriet Myrtle
The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who struggles with her faith and identity after being forced into marriage to an older man. The story explores themes of spirituality, morality, and personal growth as she navigates her circumstances.
By Harriet Myrtle · First published 1849 · Genre: Children's Literature, Family, Adventure · 2,912 words
First lines
In that part of North Wales which borders on England there are many beautiful grassy hills, often wooded half way up their sides, and lovely green valleys between them. The hills are not too high or rugged to be easily climbed in a morning's walk, and it is delightful to rest on their tops. The air is very fresh; there is a scent of wild thyme growing among the grass on which you tread, and a wide view over all the neighbouring country.
What this Textopian page supports
Old Mary Jones is listed on Textopian as a short story by Harriet Myrtle, dated 1849 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Harriet Myrtle
- Date: 1849 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Family, Adventure, Social Commentary, Pastoral
- Length: 2,912 words
- Structure: 1 section, 46 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Old Mary Jones by Harriet Myrtle
- 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 Old Mary Jones?
- How does this short story by Harriet Myrtle fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Trial Of Adversity by Mary Martha Sherwood
- The Wishing Cap by Mary Martha Sherwood
- A Big Temptation by L. T. Meade
- The Childrens Pilgrimage by L. T. Meade
- As It Was In The Beginning by Philip Verrill Mighels
Genres
- Children's Literature — The story centers around young protagonists, Walter and Lucy, and their adventures, making it suitable for a younger audience.
- Family — The narrative emphasizes family values, kindness, and the relationship between the children and their parents.
- Adventure — The plot involves the children's exploration and the challenges they face, such as getting lost and encountering a storm.
- Social Commentary — The story highlights social issues, such as the disparity in living conditions and the benevolence of the landlord.
Tags
Christian Fiction · Victorian Era · Social Commentary · Moral Guidance · Protestantism · Religious Themes · Female Protagonist · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Spiritual Journey · Faith vs Reason · Class Conflict