The Wife of Sir Isaac Harman

By H.G. Wells

Book Overview

Dive into the captivating world of "The Wife of Sir Isaac Harman," a remarkable Victorian novel by George Gissing that has been out of print for decades and is now lovingly republished by Alpha Editions. This edition is not just a reprint; it s a collector s item and a cultural treasure, meticulously restored for today s and future generations. At its heart, this poignant tale explores the complexities of marriage and the roles of women in 19th-century society. Gissing masterfully weaves a narrative that delves into the emotional and social struggles faced by its characters, offering profound insights into the institution of marriage and the societal expectations placed upon women. With rich character studies and sharp social commentary, this novel remains relevant, resonating with both casual readers and classic literature collectors alike. As you journey through the pages, you ll uncover the beauty of Gissing s prose and the timeless themes that continue to inspire discussions on relationships and gender dynamics. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in Victorian literature, historical fiction, or the evolution of women's roles in literature. Rediscover a classic that has shaped literary discourse and enjoy a piece of history that speaks to the heart of human experience. Don t miss your chance to own this essential work of 19th-century literature, now available for a new generation of readers.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9368390797
• ISBN13: 9789368390794
• Release Date: July 2025
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

An overlooked comedy by a great writer

This is my absolute favorite of all amongst Wells' social novels. Yes, he's best known for his science fiction now, but he had a genuinely brilliant eye for social satire. In my opinion, The Wife of Sir Isaac Harman is his funniest, despite some indirect hints of anti-Semitism in his sometimes stereotypical portrait of Sir Issac himself. He is not the main character, however: his wife Ellen is, as she gropes her way from a child-bride's terrified dependency upon her husband's will to finding a life and work of her own, with the help of a bumblingly romantic writer of domestic comedies. (Unlike several of Wells' other novels of women's intellectual growth, Ellen does not end up falling madly in love with a scientifically-minded iconoclast bearing a suspicious resemblance to Wells, thank goodness.) Occasionally, the writer character gets a trifle preachy, but who could resist a protagonist who suddenly declares herself a suffragette and smashes the nearest shop window because the time in jail means a holiday from her husband? Well worth the read, in short.