Downie by Selma Lagerlof (1912)
The novel revolves around a young woman who returns to her childhood home after being away for many years. She becomes embroiled in the lives of the local people and begins to uncover secrets about her family's past. The story explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1912 · Genre: Romance, Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age · 4 chapters · 12,124 words
First lines
I think I can see them as they drive away. Quite distinctly I can see his stiff, silk hat with its broad, curving brim, such as they had in the forties, his light waistcoat and his stock. I also see his handsome, clean-shaven face with its small, small whiskers, his high stiff collar, and the graceful dignity of his slightest movement. He is sitting on the right in the chaise and is just taking up the reins, and beside him is sitting that little woman. God bless her! I see her even more distinctly. Like a picture I have before me that narrow, little face, and the hat that frames it, tied under the chin, the dark-brown, smoothly combed hair, and the big shawl with the embroidered silk flowers. The chaise in which they are driving has a seat with a green, fluted back, and of course the innkeeper's horse which is to take them the first six miles is a little fat sorrel.
What this Textopian page supports
Downie is listed on Textopian as a novel by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1912 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romance, Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Social Commentary, Drama
- Length: 12,124 words
- Structure: 4 chapters, 225 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Downie by Selma Lagerlof
- 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 Downie?
- How does this novel by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Romance first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Romance — The central plot revolves around the romantic relationship between the main characters, exploring themes of love, commitment, and societal expectations.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative delves into character development and emotional depth, focusing on the inner lives and conflicts of the characters.
- Coming-of-Age — The protagonist experiences personal growth and self-discovery throughout the story, navigating her feelings and societal roles.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques social class distinctions and the expectations placed on individuals based on their backgrounds.
Tags
Swedish Literature · Feminist Themes · Coming-of-Age Story · Social Commentary · Realism · Psychological Insight · Family Dynamics · Marriage · Isolation · Loneliness · Mental Health · Identity Crisis