write an summary of a fiction a special request
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Introduction to the Novel & The Author
The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James was first published as a complete work in 1881. It was originally published as a serial that ran from 1880 to '81. Despite being an American writer, Henry James frequently traveled to and wrote about Europe. James is known for being part of the literary realism movement, which means he sought to capture life as realistically as possible in his writing rather than romanticizing or exaggerating it. The Portrait of a Lady follows a young woman who journeys to Europe. Henry James wrote the novel when he was only 37, but it is considered by scholars to be one of his best.
Plot Summary
.At the start of the novel, Isabel Archer, an American, is visiting extended family in England. During her visit, she rejects two marriage proposals, including one from Lord Warburton, who is a decent person, but toward whom Isabel does not feel romantically inclined. The other proposal, from Caspar Goodwood, tempts Isabel, but she worries that marriage will impede her personal freedom. When her ill uncle dies, he leaves Isabel a small fortune, which Isabel then uses to travel to Italy.
Theme: Responsibility
Responsibility is a common theme in much of Henry James' work, including The Portrait of a Lady. It is a theme that is linked heavily with personal freedom and the idea of being financially responsible for oneself