A Philanthropist
The novel revolves around a wealthy woman who has dedicated her life to philanthropy and social reform. She is portrayed as a complex figure with both admirable and flawed qualities. The story explores the tensions between her desire for personal happiness and her commitment to helping others. The protagonist's relationships with those around her are central to the narrative, particularly her interactions with a young woman who challenges her views on charity and class. Through these relationships, the novel raises questions about the effectiveness of philanthropy and the nature of true kindness. Ultimately, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of a woman driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world, while also grappling with her own personal struggles and limitations.
By Josephine Daskam Bacon · First published 1915 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Romantic Comedy · 9,255 words
First lines
"I suspected him from the first," said Miss Gould, with some irritation, to her lodger. She spoke with irritation because of the amused smile of the lodger. He bowed with the grace that characterized all his lazy movements.
"He looked very much like that Tom Waters that I had at the Reformed Drunkards' League last year. I even thought he was Tom -- "
What this Textopian page supports
A Philanthropist is listed on Textopian as a novel by Josephine Daskam Bacon, dated 1915 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Josephine Daskam Bacon
- Date: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Romantic Comedy, Character Study, Drama
- Length: 9,255 words
- Structure: 1 section, 137 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Philanthropist by Josephine Daskam Bacon
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Philanthropist?
- How does this novel by Josephine Daskam Bacon fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex characters and themes, focusing on social issues and personal relationships.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal norms and the responsibilities of individuals towards community welfare.
- Romantic Comedy — The interactions between the main characters contain elements of humor and romantic tension.
- Character Study — The narrative delves deeply into the psychological and moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Social Commentary · Realism · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Novel of Manners · Class Consciousness · Marriage and Relationships · Family Dynamics · Morality and Ethics · Personal Growth · Self-Discovery