‘Washington Square’ is a novel written by Henry James, first published in 1880. It’s one of James’ earlier works and is often considered one of his most accessible novels.
The story is set in the fashionable Washington Square neighborhood of New York City in the mid-19th century. The plot revolves around Catherine Sloper, a plain and unremarkable young woman who lives with her wealthy and domineering father, Dr. Austin Sloper. Catherine becomes the object of affection for the charming but penniless Morris Townsend, leading to a conflict between her desire for love and her father’s suspicion of Townsend’s motives.
‘Washington Square’ is renowned for its astute psychological insight and its exploration of themes such as family dynamics, social class, and the constraints of Victorian society. James’ prose is characterized by its subtle irony and precise attention to detail, creating a vivid portrait of the characters and their milieu.
While not as complex or intricate as some of James’ later works, such as ‘The Portrait of a Lady’ or ‘The Ambassadors, ‘ ‘Washington Square’ remains a beloved classic of American literature, admired for its engaging plot, memorable characters, and timeless exploration of human nature.
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