Miss Marjoribanks
What is Miss Marjoribanks about?
Miss Marjoribanks (1866) follows Lucilla Marjoribanks as she returns from school to “be a comfort to her papa” and systematically takes over the social life of the provincial town of Carlingford. Sharp, witty, and brilliantly observed — often compared to Jane Austen’s Emma.
Main themes in Miss Marjoribanks
Social comedy
Social comedy emerges as a defining element in Miss Marjoribanks, shaping character development.
Provincial life
The theme of provincial life weaves through Miss Marjoribanks, adding depth to its narrative.
Female ambition
The presence of female ambition in Miss Marjoribanks connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Carlingford
Carlingford emerges as a defining element in Miss Marjoribanks, shaping character development.
Why Miss Marjoribanks is still relevant today
Widely regarded as Oliphant's masterpiece. A feminist re-reading of Victorian social comedy that has been compared favorably to Austen and Trollope.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Miss Marjoribanks about?
A sharp young woman systematically takes over the social life of a provincial town. Often compared to Austen's Emma.
Where can I read it?
Free on TextStack.