I'm a fairly latecomer to Henry James, being initially put off him because it appears he is no longer deemed popular in literary circles. I also tried to briefly to read 'The Aspern Papers' and gave up almost immediately.
'Washington Square' was something else entirely. Initially it was rather difficult to get into, but quite soon after I found myself falling in love with the style, the prose and the story. James seems so in tune with the moral and social conventions of his time, and I found myself amazed by the way women were expected to behave both in society and in private. Also, the idea that women are such timid, 'simple' creatures who only exist to marry rich and intelligent men was a theme that grated on me. Of course these ideals are not new to me, especially in literature of this period, but I found it especially obvious in this story which spurred me on to read more and more.
The story revolves around only 4 principle characters. Dr Sloper, an imminent doctor, his sister Lavinia, his daughter Catherine and her suitor Mr Townsend. Henry James has managed to create a whole world in this tiny cocoon that barely ventures outside.
Catherine is an intelligent and headstrong girl, who falls for the charming and handsome Mr Morris Townsend at a social function. Although a seemingly decent man, Morris is poor and Catherine's father Dr Sloper does not believe that his intentions are purely honourable. Catherine has a rather comfortable fortune left by her deceased mother, and will stand to inherit even more from her father on his death. Catherine becomes infatuated quickly with Morris, and there is talk of marriage in the future. Her father however will not stand for the relationship, and does everything in his power to convince Catherine to break it off. Meanwhile, Catherine's aunt Lavinia is in the background, whispering words of encouragement to her, telling her to defy her father and marry Morris immediately. Dr Sloper decides to teach Catherine a lesson, and tells her that if she persists with her courtship, she will not inherit a single penny of his money and will probably lose Morris in the process anyway.
Wonderful story, intelligently written and captivating prose from a man who has risen quickly to the top of my favourite author list.
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