Episode 272: Best of Series – “The Enchanted April” by Elizabeth von Arnim, Ch. 1-11

Apr 15, 2025

Delve into the enchanting world of Elizabeth von Arnim's novel as the hosts explore themes of identity and beauty. They discuss the character dynamics of Mrs. Wilkins and Mrs. Arbuthnot, revealing their struggles and self-discovery. Humor and humanity shine through with witty remarks and reflections on societal pressures. Learn about von Arnim’s life, her quirky relationships, and the novel's impact on Italian tourism. The conversation emphasizes the richness of literary beauty and personal transformation in the idyllic Italian setting.

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INSIGHT

Beauty's Dual Nature Explored

This book explores the tension between beauty as self-indulgence and as something necessary for the soul's happiness.
The characters wrestle with whether beauty is wasteful or a vital part of life.

ANECDOTE

Author's Harsh Treatment of Tutors

Elizabeth von Arnim hired E.M. Forster and Hugh Walpole as tutors but treated them badly, mocking Forster’s tie and Walpole’s pajamas.
Both men left quickly due to her harsh and humiliating behavior.

INSIGHT

Two Sides of Identity Struggle

Mrs. Wilkins and Mrs. Arbuthnot embody two sides of the same struggle to find identity and recognition.
Both women wrestle with feeling unseen or overly seen but not known authentically.

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The Idiot

Fyodor Dostoevsky

Written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky between 1867 and 1869, 'The Idiot' follows the story of Prince Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a young man with a pure and innocent heart, often mistaken for an 'idiot' due to his simplicity and goodness. The novel examines how this 'positively beautiful man' navigates a world filled with corruption, moral decay, and complex human relationships. Myshkin's interactions with characters like Nastasya Filippovna and Aglaia Epanchina highlight themes of love, suffering, sacrifice, and the clash between idealistic values and the harsh realities of society. The novel ultimately leads to Myshkin's mental breakdown and his inability to cope with the world around him[2][3][5].

Paradise Lost

John Milton

Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights[1][3][5].

The Divine Comedy

Dante Alighieri

The Divine Comedy is an Italian narrative poem begun around 1308 and completed around 1321. It is divided into three parts: Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The poem discusses the state of the soul after death and presents an image of divine justice, describing Dante's travels through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. It is an allegory representing the soul's journey towards God, drawing on medieval Catholic theology and philosophy, especially Thomistic philosophy. The work is considered one of the greatest in Italian literature and Western literature, and it helped establish the Tuscan language as the standardized Italian language.

Howard's End

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E. M. Forster

E.M. Forster's "Howard's End" is a novel exploring the clash between the upper and middle classes in Edwardian England. The novel follows the Schlegel sisters, Margaret and Helen, and their interactions with the Wilcoxes, a wealthy family. Forster masterfully portrays the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of bridging social divides. The novel's central theme is the importance of human connection and empathy, symbolized by the recurring phrase "Only Connect." "Howard's End" is a poignant and insightful exploration of class, love, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

Grimm's fairy tales

Jacob Grimm

A collection of classic fairy tales compiled by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, featuring beloved stories such as Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, and Rapunzel. These tales, originating from German folklore, explore themes of good versus evil, morality, and the power of perseverance. The Grimms' work has had a lasting impact on children's literature and popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations and reinterpretations. The stories often feature magical elements, talking animals, and supernatural beings, reflecting the rich tapestry of European folklore. Their enduring popularity speaks to the timeless appeal of these enchanting narratives.

The Enchanted April

Elizabeth von Arnim

Elizabeth von Arnim's "The Enchanted April" is a novel about a group of women who rent a castle in Italy. The novel explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the restorative power of nature. Von Arnim's witty writing and charming characters make the novel a delightful read. The novel's exploration of female relationships and the importance of personal growth continues to resonate with readers. The novel's setting in Italy adds to its charm and provides a backdrop for the characters' transformations.

Sartor resartus

Thomas Carlyle

Thomas Carlyle's "Sartor Resartus" is a philosophical work exploring themes of clothing, society, and the nature of reality. It's presented as a fictional treatise on the philosophy of clothes, using clothing as a metaphor for the superficial aspects of society and the search for meaning. The work is known for its complex prose and its exploration of spiritual and philosophical ideas. It's considered one of Carlyle's most important works, showcasing his unique style and his profound insights into human nature. Its influence on later thinkers and writers is significant, demonstrating its lasting impact on intellectual discourse.

The angel in the house

Coventry Patmore

Coventry Patmore's "The Angel in the House" is a long poem that idealizes the Victorian woman as a pure, selfless, and devoted wife. The poem's influence on Victorian society was significant, shaping expectations of women's roles and behavior. It presents a romanticized view of domesticity and marital love, often criticized for its restrictive portrayal of women. However, it also offers insights into the social and cultural norms of the time. The poem's enduring legacy lies in its impact on the understanding of gender roles and the idealization of domesticity in Victorian England.

The art of the commonplace

the agrarian essays of Wendell Berry

Wendell Berry

Wendell Berry's "The Art of the Commonplace" is a collection of essays exploring themes of nature, community, and the importance of place. Berry's writing emphasizes the interconnectedness of human life and the natural world, advocating for a more sustainable and ethical way of living. His essays are known for their lyrical prose and their profound insights into the human condition. Berry's work is considered essential reading for anyone interested in environmentalism, agrarianism, and the importance of place. His influence on contemporary thought and action is significant, inspiring readers to engage with the world in a more thoughtful and responsible manner.

The garden party

Katherine Mansfield

Katherine Mansfield's "The Garden Party" is a short story exploring themes of class, social divisions, and the complexities of human relationships. The story follows a young woman from a wealthy family as she prepares for a garden party, juxtaposing the celebration with the death of a working-class man in the neighborhood. Mansfield's evocative prose and her keen observation of human behavior create a powerful and moving narrative. The story's exploration of social inequalities and the complexities of human experience continues to resonate with readers today. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless themes and its masterful storytelling.