The Evolution of Evangeline
This novel explores the complexities of female identity and societal expectations through the life of its protagonist, Evangeline. Born into a family with strong Puritan values, she struggles to reconcile her own desires with the constraints placed upon her. As Evangeline navigates her relationships and personal growth, the narrative delves into themes of love, morality, and the limitations imposed on women during this period. The story is set against the backdrop of 17th-century New England, where strict social norms govern every aspect of life. Through Evangeline's experiences, the novel critiques the societal pressures that shape a woman's existence, highlighting the tension between personal freedom and the expectations of family and community.
By Josephine Daskam Bacon · First published 1919 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Social Commentary · 7,312 words
First lines
To those who knew her afterward it may seem an impossible condition of affairs, but it is nevertheless quite true that until the night of the sophomore reception she was utterly unheard of. Indeed, when her name was read to the chairman of the committee that looks up stray freshmen, yet uninvited, and compels them to come in, the chairman refused to believe that she existed.
"I don't believe there's any such person," she growled, "and if there is, there's nobody to take her. I can't _make_ sophomores! Evangeline Potts, forsooth! What a perfectly idiotic name! Who's to take her? Where does she live? Where's the catalogue?"
What this Textopian page supports
The Evolution of Evangeline is listed on Textopian as a novel by Josephine Daskam Bacon, dated 1919 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: 1919 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Social Commentary, Romance, Comedy of Manners
- Length: 7,312 words
- Structure: 1 section, 123 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Evolution of Evangeline by Josephine Daskam Bacon
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Evolution of Evangeline?
- 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?
Similar titles
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- The Emancipation Of Billy by O. Henry
- The Freshest Boy by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex character development, social dynamics, and personal growth, typical of literary fiction.
- Coming-of-Age — The protagonist undergoes significant personal transformation and self-discovery during her college years.
- Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and expectations regarding beauty, class, and gender roles.
- Romance — Romantic relationships and their implications play a significant role in character interactions and development.
Tags
Feminist Fiction · American Literature · Coming-of-Age Story · Social Commentary · Romance Novel · Historical Fiction · Women's Rights · Marriage and Relationships · Family Dynamics · Class Struggle · Morality Tale · Self-Discovery