Mitchell on Matrimony
The novel explores the complexities of marriage and relationships through the eyes of a young woman who marries an older man for financial security. The story delves into themes of love, duty, and societal expectations, raising questions about the nature of matrimony and the roles women are expected to play within it.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1907 · Genre: Short Story, Realism, Domestic Fiction · 2,124 words
First lines
"I suppose your wife will be glad to see you," said Mitchell to his mate in their camp by the dam at Hungerford. They were overhauling their swags, and throwing away the blankets, and calico, and old clothes, and rubbish they didn't want -- everything, in fact, except their pocket-books and letters and portraits, things which men carry about with them always, that are found on them when they die, and sent to their relations if possible. Otherwise they are taken in charge by the constable who officiates at the inquest, and forwarded to the Minister of Justice along with the depositions.
What this Textopian page supports
Mitchell on Matrimony is listed on Textopian as a short story by Henry Lawson, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Story, Realism, Domestic Fiction, Australian Literature, Humor
- Length: 2,124 words
- Structure: 1 section, 46 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Mitchell on Matrimony by Henry Lawson
- 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 Mitchell on Matrimony?
- How does this short story by Henry Lawson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Short Story — The work is a concise narrative focusing on a specific incident or theme, typical of short stories.
- Realism — The narrative presents a realistic portrayal of everyday life and relationships, emphasizing ordinary characters and situations.
- Domestic Fiction — The story explores themes of marriage and domestic life, focusing on the personal and emotional aspects of relationships.
- Australian Literature — The setting and cultural context are distinctly Australian, reflecting the country's rural life and social dynamics.
Tags
Australian literature · Marriage · Social commentary · Satire · Humor · Realism · Fiction · Short stories · 19th century · Colonial era · Society · Class