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Famous Affinities of History: The Romance of Devotion. Volume 4

by Lyndon Orr

  • Free to read
  • 2 hours to read
  • 10 chapters
  • Reading level: 8th & 9th grade

"Famous Affinities of History: The Romance of Devotion. Volume 4" by Lyndon Orr is a historical account likely written during the late 19th century. The book explores the intricate romantic relationships of notable figures throughout history, particularly focusing on literary and artistic giants. In the opening chapter, the narrative centers on Jonathan Swift, the renowned satirist and author of "Gulliver's Travels," and his tumultuous associations with two remarkable women, Esther Johnson (Stella) and Esther Vanhomrigh (Vanessa). The beginning of the volume delves into Swift's life, highlighting his complex relationship dynamics and the affections bestowed upon him by both Esthers. It reveals his early encounters that shaped his character, touching upon his isolation and longing for companionship. As he grows close to Stella, who becomes his confidante, it juxtaposes the fiery and passionate love of Vanessa, which leads to tragic outcomes. Swift's reticence and aloofness result in heartache for both women, culminating in a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and emotional turmoil that defines the lives of these historical figures.

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  • Biography
  • Love
  • Women · Biography

Read the opening

Percy Bysshe Shelley and Mary Godwin

A great deal has been said and written in favor of early marriage; and, in a general way, early marriage may be an admirable thing. Young men and young women who have no special gift of imagination, and who have practically reached their full mental development at twenty-one or twenty-two—or earlier, even in their teens—may marry safely; because they are already what they will be. They are not going to experience any growth upward and outward. Passing years simply bring them more closely together, until they have settled down into a sort of domestic unity, by which they think alike, act alike, and even gradually come to look alike.

But early wedlock spells tragedy to the man or the woman of genius. In their teens they have only begun to grow. What they will be ten years hence, no one can prophesy. Therefore, to mate so early in life is to insure almost certain storm and stress, and, in the end, domestic wreckage.

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Contents

  1. Front Matter
  2. Percy Bysshe Shelley and Mary Godwin
  3. Shelley and Mary Godwin
  4. The Story of the Carlyles
  5. Goody, Goody, Dear Goody
  6. The Story of the Hugos
  7. The Story of George Sand
  8. The Mystery of Charles Dickens
  9. Honore De Balzac and Evelina Hanska
  10. Charles Reade and Laura Seymour

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About this edition

This free edition of Famous Affinities of History: The Romance of Devotion. Volume 4 by Lyndon Orr comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #4692, released 2003-11-01. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Biographies, History - Other.

Summary provided by Project Gutenberg (automatically generated).

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