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The Crux
Long out of print, Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s novel The Crux is an important early feminist work that brings to the fore complicated issues of gender, citizenship, eugenics, and frontier nationalism. First published serially in the feminist journal The Forerunner in 1910, The Crux tells the story of a group of New England women who move west to start a boardinghouse for men in Colorado. The innocent central character, Vivian Lane, falls in love with Morton Elder, who has both gonorrhea and syphilis. The concern of the novel is not so much that Vivian will catch syphilis, but that, if she were to marry and have children with Morton, she would harm the "national stock." The novel was written, in Gilman’s words, as a "story . . . for young women to read . . . in order that they may protect themselves and their children to come." What was to be protected was the civic imperative to produce "pureblooded" citizens for a utopian ideal. Dana Seitler’s introduction provides historical context, revealing The Crux as an allegory for social and political anxieties—including the rampant insecurities over contagion and disease—in the United States at the beginning of the twentieth century. Seitler highlights the importance of The Crux to understandings of Gilman’s body of work specifically and early feminism more generally. She shows how the novel complicates critical history by illustrating the biological argument undergirding Gilman’s feminism. Indeed, The Crux demonstrates how popular conceptions of eugenic science were attractive to feminist authors and intellectuals because they suggested that ideologies of national progress and U.S. expansionism depended as much on women and motherhood as on masculine contest.
184 pages, Paperback
Published July 29, 2003
8 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Perkins Gilman
1,060 books2,244 followersCharlotte Perkins Gilman (1860-1935), also known as Charlotte Perkins Stetson, was a prominent American sociologist, novelist, writer of short stories, poetry, and nonfiction, and a lecturer for social reform. She was a utopian feminist during a time when her accomplishments were exceptional for women, and she served as a role model for future generations of feminists because of her unorthodox concepts and lifestyle. Her best remembered work today is her semi-autobiographical short story, "The Yellow Wallpaper", which she wrote after a severe bout of post-partum depression.
She was the daughter of Frederic B. Perkins.
She was the daughter of Frederic B. Perkins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 13, 2022
I was sent a copy of this book from Leamington Books as part of an upcoming book tour organised by Love Book Tours. With thanks to both, this gift has not impacted my review.
Outside of Herland, Charlotte Perkins Gilman is an author I know very very little about. The introduction in the edition I received was written by Ambrose Kelly, and it provided an insightful look at Gilman's outlook on a number of matters. This is a woman who was radical in many of her beliefs, which was clear throughout this story.
This story largely follows Vivian Lane, a young, independently minded woman who moves to a boarding house. Vivian's story starts a few years prior to this move however, when she says goodbye to Morton Elder, a scapegoat in their small town for gossip as he lives his whimsical life at college and ultimately gets expelled. When he leaves, she is heartbroken but life carries on. Vivian grows to love children and would love to open her own Kindergarten, and when she goes to the boarding house with her female companions, she discovers friendships like she hasn't experienced. But then comes Morton, and she realises she is still in love with him, and he her. But it is soon revealed that Morton has incurable and transmittable STDs and Vivian is torn. Does she stay with the man she loves in sickness and in health, or does she take into account that they'll not be able to have healthy children and is that enough of a reason to leave him?
I don't really know how to feel about this book. Gilman was a massive fan of eugenics so it seems, and it's very evident in this book. The discussion regarding Theophile, a child born from parents with Gonorrhoea, is honestly a little harrowing. I understand this book was written at a different time, a time when these STDs and STIs weren't treatable nor were they understood, but it just sits a little weird now. I do think this book is a very interesting snapshot of pre-WW1 society in America. It was an easy enough read, the characters were well rounded, and it was nice to read a historical classic with strong-willed females represented. I do understand why this book is considered controversial and has been in and out of print for a while, but I'm glad to have read it. I think reading books that make us a little uncomfortable aren't necessarily a bad thing.
Outside of Herland, Charlotte Perkins Gilman is an author I know very very little about. The introduction in the edition I received was written by Ambrose Kelly, and it provided an insightful look at Gilman's outlook on a number of matters. This is a woman who was radical in many of her beliefs, which was clear throughout this story.
This story largely follows Vivian Lane, a young, independently minded woman who moves to a boarding house. Vivian's story starts a few years prior to this move however, when she says goodbye to Morton Elder, a scapegoat in their small town for gossip as he lives his whimsical life at college and ultimately gets expelled. When he leaves, she is heartbroken but life carries on. Vivian grows to love children and would love to open her own Kindergarten, and when she goes to the boarding house with her female companions, she discovers friendships like she hasn't experienced. But then comes Morton, and she realises she is still in love with him, and he her. But it is soon revealed that Morton has incurable and transmittable STDs and Vivian is torn. Does she stay with the man she loves in sickness and in health, or does she take into account that they'll not be able to have healthy children and is that enough of a reason to leave him?
I don't really know how to feel about this book. Gilman was a massive fan of eugenics so it seems, and it's very evident in this book. The discussion regarding Theophile, a child born from parents with Gonorrhoea, is honestly a little harrowing. I understand this book was written at a different time, a time when these STDs and STIs weren't treatable nor were they understood, but it just sits a little weird now. I do think this book is a very interesting snapshot of pre-WW1 society in America. It was an easy enough read, the characters were well rounded, and it was nice to read a historical classic with strong-willed females represented. I do understand why this book is considered controversial and has been in and out of print for a while, but I'm glad to have read it. I think reading books that make us a little uncomfortable aren't necessarily a bad thing.
March 4, 2008
I love Gilman, even though she's dated. I mean, who isn't dated? She wrote this book the year my grandfather was born. Of course her feminism won't be cutting-edge. The introduction prepared me to be horrified by the eugenicist overtones of the novel and a greater focus on CPG's biological feminism than some of her better known works.
But you know what? The "eugenics" bit - don't marry someone with an untreated/untreatable STD if your major goal is to have healthy children - bothered me less than perhaps it should. The women are strong and self-determining for their time, but i still found them alien, possibly because at its heart the book is several layers of romance wrapped around a didactic nut.
But you know what? The "eugenics" bit - don't marry someone with an untreated/untreatable STD if your major goal is to have healthy children - bothered me less than perhaps it should. The women are strong and self-determining for their time, but i still found them alien, possibly because at its heart the book is several layers of romance wrapped around a didactic nut.
November 7, 2021
I actually really enjoyed this book, but probably because I was reading it from the female perspective of the 21st century. The entire books promotion of women being obligated to marry and have children is automatically different, especially when the book is also promoting women to fear men since 75% of men of some type of STI that will prevent healthy offspring. It felt like a book devoted to promote healthy breeding and groom women into being fearful and cautious in marriage because the entire world is dependent on them. An odd book that I wasn't expecting to enjoy, but definitely found quite funny.
February 22, 2022
Reading this book from a female perspective influenced my enjoyment of it. It automatically differs when the book promotes women as being required to marry and have children, especially when it also encourages women to be afraid of men. This is because men have some kind of STI that will affect the health of their offspring. As a result, it felt as though it was devoted to promoting healthy breeding and preparing women for marriage by making them cautious and fearful. I found this book to be quite humorous, despite my expectation that I wouldn't enjoy it.
March 17, 2022
I've never really been one to read the introduction to books however I've definitely been converted after reading Ambrose Kelly's new introduction at the start of The Crux.
The Crux was originally published as a series of articles in Charlotte Gilman's periodical The Forerunner before later being collated into this novel. The introduction was invaluable to me as it's a period of time and American history I know nearly nothing about so it truly helped to set the scene and allowed me to enjoy my reading to a greater degree than I would have otherwise. There was also some fascinating information about the author and I truly admire her being an outspoken feminist in her time as well as trying to warn people of certain dancers which propriety deemed it unsuitable to discuss.
On to the story itself we follow young Vivian who strikes out on her own, moving across the country to work in a family friends boarding house with dreams to set up a kindergarten once she is established. While there she bumps into Morton, he old childhood crush and their blossoming relationship soon brings a marriage proposal. However Morton has enjoyed his life well since leaving their home town and is now carrying syphilis and gonorrhoea, leaving Vivian with a difficult decision to make.
The story and some of the ideals within are very much of their time, in particular it being a woman's duty to marry and a man's duty to provide however the authors writing just flowed so beautifully and the characters were so dimensional you couldn't help but be swept up in the story.
The idea that Gilman wrote this in order to warn the younger generation of hidden dangers is really touching and if you enjoy anything of the historical genre I think you would really enjoy this novel.
The Crux was originally published as a series of articles in Charlotte Gilman's periodical The Forerunner before later being collated into this novel. The introduction was invaluable to me as it's a period of time and American history I know nearly nothing about so it truly helped to set the scene and allowed me to enjoy my reading to a greater degree than I would have otherwise. There was also some fascinating information about the author and I truly admire her being an outspoken feminist in her time as well as trying to warn people of certain dancers which propriety deemed it unsuitable to discuss.
On to the story itself we follow young Vivian who strikes out on her own, moving across the country to work in a family friends boarding house with dreams to set up a kindergarten once she is established. While there she bumps into Morton, he old childhood crush and their blossoming relationship soon brings a marriage proposal. However Morton has enjoyed his life well since leaving their home town and is now carrying syphilis and gonorrhoea, leaving Vivian with a difficult decision to make.
The story and some of the ideals within are very much of their time, in particular it being a woman's duty to marry and a man's duty to provide however the authors writing just flowed so beautifully and the characters were so dimensional you couldn't help but be swept up in the story.
The idea that Gilman wrote this in order to warn the younger generation of hidden dangers is really touching and if you enjoy anything of the historical genre I think you would really enjoy this novel.
March 20, 2022
The Crux - Ambrose Kelly
Charlotte Perkins Gilman
I learned so much before even starting to read this book the introduction taught me so much about Women and their lifestyles in the late 19th early 20th Century. I immediately thought how fitting considering it’s international women’s day today. As someone who has a keen interest in social sciences biologically and theoretically I knew this was going to be right up my street. Although I thought the writing to begin with was really detailed full of information and direct this didn’t impact my view from the book.
I was taken back by the thoughts of sexuality and gender. I do agree with a lot of it that women should have more independence and live their life the way they want to live their life whether this is romantically or educationally. I was really intrigued to know that there’s an original to this book so I’m eager to look for that and see the similarities. For a very well structured and organised insight into a feminist book I really truly appreciated this. I feel like I have a better understanding on what being a feminist is all about.
I enjoyed following the different characters, I enjoyed comparing what life was like back then to how life is now. It was an overall really insightful interesting read. It’s a lot slower paced than the usual reads I would pick up and go for. One thing I’ve learned from this book is there’s still a long way for women to grow in the world we live in today. This book is powerful in every way!
Charlotte Perkins Gilman
I learned so much before even starting to read this book the introduction taught me so much about Women and their lifestyles in the late 19th early 20th Century. I immediately thought how fitting considering it’s international women’s day today. As someone who has a keen interest in social sciences biologically and theoretically I knew this was going to be right up my street. Although I thought the writing to begin with was really detailed full of information and direct this didn’t impact my view from the book.
I was taken back by the thoughts of sexuality and gender. I do agree with a lot of it that women should have more independence and live their life the way they want to live their life whether this is romantically or educationally. I was really intrigued to know that there’s an original to this book so I’m eager to look for that and see the similarities. For a very well structured and organised insight into a feminist book I really truly appreciated this. I feel like I have a better understanding on what being a feminist is all about.
I enjoyed following the different characters, I enjoyed comparing what life was like back then to how life is now. It was an overall really insightful interesting read. It’s a lot slower paced than the usual reads I would pick up and go for. One thing I’ve learned from this book is there’s still a long way for women to grow in the world we live in today. This book is powerful in every way!
January 5, 2016
'On ladies avoiding gonorrhea and syphilis' would be a better title for this book. The language is fit for a instruction manual and not for a novel, but it was an interesting read.
February 24, 2022
So I'll admit I don't normally get on with books that are older or the 'classics' I can struggle to gel with the writing and normally find it a bit boring but that wasn't the case with this book.
This book was originally published in 1911 and was aimed at 'young and impressionable women primarily, followed by men and anyone else willing to listen', and to be honest I feel that this could have been written more recently rather than 90 years ago. I found Vivian really likeable and felt her frustration of wanting to do more than just be her womanly duty and marry and have children which I feel is something I still feel is still expected of women now though maybe not conveyed in the same way! Although this was supposed to be a warning to women and ti education them on topics not discussed then, it didn't feel like it and would be interested to learn more about Charlotte and read more of her works
This book was originally published in 1911 and was aimed at 'young and impressionable women primarily, followed by men and anyone else willing to listen', and to be honest I feel that this could have been written more recently rather than 90 years ago. I found Vivian really likeable and felt her frustration of wanting to do more than just be her womanly duty and marry and have children which I feel is something I still feel is still expected of women now though maybe not conveyed in the same way! Although this was supposed to be a warning to women and ti education them on topics not discussed then, it didn't feel like it and would be interested to learn more about Charlotte and read more of her works
June 27, 2024
3.5 stars
May 7, 2022
When I was offered a place on the tour for The Crux, I knew I had to participate. I enjoyed The Yellow Wallpaper the first time I read it and I appreciate it even more for a bunch of different reasons since reading it later in life. So naturally I’d want to read a piece of work that has been in and out of print. I’m so glad that @leamingtonbooks has published Gilman’s work to be admired once again.
The forward gives an insight to the patriarchal society where the expectations of women at the time were rather dim. And as Charlotte does, she challenges the norm with her prose. In real life she was a lecturer and writer who called herself a humanist rather than a feminist.
The Krux is story of Vivian and her friends who take the opportunity to run a boarding house, somewhat of a rarity at the time, and therefore, it is a story of women challenging their place in the world. Not only challenging societal expectations but their own values and beliefs. These women made brave decisions that went against the norms of the early nineteenth century. I admire Gilman. She was ahead of her time. It’s like reading a Jane Austen novel about Gloria Steinman. Gilman was, after all, a major influence on the early women's movement.
I highly recommend this book if you’re a feminist, a humanitarian or an avid read of classical fiction. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
This post was my spot on the tour. @leamingtonbooks kindly sent me a copy to read. This book is one book in their Gothic World Literature Editions. Hint, hint, I’d happily read the other books in this series.
Also thanks to @loveboostours and @igbooktours for the place in this tour. #ad #pr
The forward gives an insight to the patriarchal society where the expectations of women at the time were rather dim. And as Charlotte does, she challenges the norm with her prose. In real life she was a lecturer and writer who called herself a humanist rather than a feminist.
The Krux is story of Vivian and her friends who take the opportunity to run a boarding house, somewhat of a rarity at the time, and therefore, it is a story of women challenging their place in the world. Not only challenging societal expectations but their own values and beliefs. These women made brave decisions that went against the norms of the early nineteenth century. I admire Gilman. She was ahead of her time. It’s like reading a Jane Austen novel about Gloria Steinman. Gilman was, after all, a major influence on the early women's movement.
I highly recommend this book if you’re a feminist, a humanitarian or an avid read of classical fiction. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
This post was my spot on the tour. @leamingtonbooks kindly sent me a copy to read. This book is one book in their Gothic World Literature Editions. Hint, hint, I’d happily read the other books in this series.
Also thanks to @loveboostours and @igbooktours for the place in this tour. #ad #pr
February 20, 2022
I have taught Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s short story The Yellow Wallpaper for at least 18 years. It is one of my favorite short stories to teach. There is so much that current high school kids do not automatically infer, but once they have the background knowledge, they totally see how groundbreaking the story is! This book is very similar!
As an English teacher, I was super excited to receive this book and be given the opportunity to read it! I loved how the beginning of the book set up the reader to fully understand the constraints women were living in during this time. The commentary on a woman’s place in society, ie the house and married, was very much forced, not just encouraged, over education and empowerment to fulfill one’s dreams. There was only one acceptable dream. This book definitely does not read like it was written in 1911. The themes are specific to the time, but the writing style almost feels like a modern day take on the time period. There are many other topics that arise as the females progress through the novel.
Thank you so much to @lovebookstours @igbooktours @leamingtonbooks for the #gifted copy!
As an English teacher, I was super excited to receive this book and be given the opportunity to read it! I loved how the beginning of the book set up the reader to fully understand the constraints women were living in during this time. The commentary on a woman’s place in society, ie the house and married, was very much forced, not just encouraged, over education and empowerment to fulfill one’s dreams. There was only one acceptable dream. This book definitely does not read like it was written in 1911. The themes are specific to the time, but the writing style almost feels like a modern day take on the time period. There are many other topics that arise as the females progress through the novel.
Thank you so much to @lovebookstours @igbooktours @leamingtonbooks for the #gifted copy!
March 4, 2022
This was originally published in 1911 so I was intrigued to reading a feminist classic.
This was an intriguing feminist tale touching on themes of independence, bravery and motherhood. There are some part of the book that made me shake my head as it’s still happening in this day and age. Having sexually transmitted diseases back then was like a death sentence whereas as of today it was just common and can be treated without leaving debilitating consequences.
This book left me conflicted but I have to remind myself that the historical era from the 1900’s and the story was set in societal view at that time. Being a feminist at that time and taking control of you life was a big thing and I applaud the author for bringing it to light. It’s important to all of us to know how feminism change through the years.
Thank you Leamington Books for providing me with a copy for my honest review.
If you are a feminist this is a must read book, it’s either you’ll love it or hate it, definitely a marmite book in my opinion.
February 25, 2022
What a refreshing classic.
Written in 1911, this is the epitome of a new movement in feminist activism.
On the surface, we see a group of young ladies making the move across America to help a friend run a boarding house. The ladies gain in many ways - friendships - love - maturity and independence.
But underneath the tragic love story lies an education to all young women of the time.
I really enjoyed seeing the characters develop throughout the story, especially that of Vivien who went through the biggest transformation.
I also found the writing style, really refreshing for a classic. Not stuffy or prudish as with many of the British classics of that time. Really easygoing.
This print has a new introduction by Ambrose Kelly which I found super informative. Learning the background to the period and the inspirations for this work really made me think about the different meanings and the motivation of the story.
Written in 1911, this is the epitome of a new movement in feminist activism.
On the surface, we see a group of young ladies making the move across America to help a friend run a boarding house. The ladies gain in many ways - friendships - love - maturity and independence.
But underneath the tragic love story lies an education to all young women of the time.
I really enjoyed seeing the characters develop throughout the story, especially that of Vivien who went through the biggest transformation.
I also found the writing style, really refreshing for a classic. Not stuffy or prudish as with many of the British classics of that time. Really easygoing.
This print has a new introduction by Ambrose Kelly which I found super informative. Learning the background to the period and the inspirations for this work really made me think about the different meanings and the motivation of the story.
March 12, 2022
If you were born in a time when STI’s were incurable life, or death sentences and then fell in love with someone who had them, what would you do? Would you choose the man and no children or walk away and do what was expected in that era? Walk away and forget you ever knew them.
This is a tale of feminism, of strength and woman willing to make her own decisions. However heart rending they may be.
It’s impossible to read this book and feel nothing. But you need to dwell in her time for a while and see exactly how difficult these decisions were and what a different world she was in.
I can’t say I enjoyed this book in the conventional sense, but it’s definitely interesting and it gives insight on life in a time when choices were limited for women and fear of being different, of standing out forced decisions that were unthinkable to those who had to live with them.
With thanks to LoveBooksGroup and the publisher for the advanced reading copy of this book.
This is a tale of feminism, of strength and woman willing to make her own decisions. However heart rending they may be.
It’s impossible to read this book and feel nothing. But you need to dwell in her time for a while and see exactly how difficult these decisions were and what a different world she was in.
I can’t say I enjoyed this book in the conventional sense, but it’s definitely interesting and it gives insight on life in a time when choices were limited for women and fear of being different, of standing out forced decisions that were unthinkable to those who had to live with them.
With thanks to LoveBooksGroup and the publisher for the advanced reading copy of this book.
February 28, 2022
I was so excited to read this book. I read The Yellow Wallpaper when I was a teenager and loved her writing. The Crux is certainly no different, there is such a lovely introspective look at all these characters, Vivian especially that you feel you really are inhabiting their timeframe. This must have been quite progressive for its time in its male and female viewpoints around sexually transmitted diseases. Yes, there are blatant undertones of eugenics and women having to detriment themselves to follow society’s ideals and that also makes it severely rooted in its time. But a short historical novel with some strong female characters was exactly what I needed so I’m happy I read it.
Thank you to @lovebookstours and @leamingtonbooks for the beautiful edition. Also, really enjoyed the foreword by @ambrose.visual.
Thank you to @lovebookstours and @leamingtonbooks for the beautiful edition. Also, really enjoyed the foreword by @ambrose.visual.
March 12, 2021
An interesting novel that focuses on feminist themes still relevant today. I liked the characters and that how
February 21, 2022
I enjoyed this book and the story it told.
I became partly engrossed in the life of Vivian and how she was trying to follow a man that she loved but could not marry due to him having a disease. I feel like this book could have had a couple more twists and turns but I fell in love with majority of the characters.
I loves the plot of this story and the different adventures the character went on to become strong leading ladies. I wish there was more to the ending as I feel like there are questions to be answered.
I became partly engrossed in the life of Vivian and how she was trying to follow a man that she loved but could not marry due to him having a disease. I feel like this book could have had a couple more twists and turns but I fell in love with majority of the characters.
I loves the plot of this story and the different adventures the character went on to become strong leading ladies. I wish there was more to the ending as I feel like there are questions to be answered.
April 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Even though it was written some time ago, it seems as though it could have been written today as a period piece. The writing was excellent and the story well-told. I liked the very real issues women face(d) being a main theme of the book. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, who were a good sample of society.
February 28, 2022
This was an easy read, definitely one that could help you get out of a reading slump.
This book was written originally in the early 1900s and has a very strong message to avoid marrying men with stds. It is outdated but gives a nice insight into the author's view on eugenics. Not one I'd rush to read again though.
This book was written originally in the early 1900s and has a very strong message to avoid marrying men with stds. It is outdated but gives a nice insight into the author's view on eugenics. Not one I'd rush to read again though.
December 10, 2022
Too many characters to keep up with
July 16, 2025
I love this book. This book is akin to Pride and Prejudice for me. Why is it not more well-known
February 24, 2022
The Crux - Charlotte Perkins Gilman
I was kindly sent a copy of The Crux in exchange for an honest review as part of a book tour. Thank you to Love Book Tours for the opportunity.
Section of the blurb:
First published in her magazine The Forerunner, Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Crux is an emotive tale on the nuances of female independence, social expectation and love in early 20th century America.
Following an all-female group who move west to open a boarding house for men, The Crux focuses on the experience of Vivian ― and her desire for the undesirable. Deeply in love with Morton, a charismatic young man infected with both syphilis and gonorrhoea, Vivian’s expected journey through her ‘marriage’ years is abruptly turned upside down.
Review:
The Crux was an interesting reads which touches on so many important topics that it felt like it could (and should) be studied in school literature lessons. The way the role of men and women was portrayed was so important, as was the differing attitude to changing society dependent on geographical location. The role of medicine and growing understanding of illness was also prevalent and hand in hand with the becoming idea of female doctors.
Despite the range of topics covered, this was a relatively short read at c200 pages however not an easy read due to the language used at the time of publication. I also found the quantity of characters somewhat confusing to keep up with although this did make the story more interesting as you heard tales of individuals and their relationships in parallel.
One thing which also stood out to me was the nice touch of a short poem to begin each chapter.
I was kindly sent a copy of The Crux in exchange for an honest review as part of a book tour. Thank you to Love Book Tours for the opportunity.
Section of the blurb:
First published in her magazine The Forerunner, Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Crux is an emotive tale on the nuances of female independence, social expectation and love in early 20th century America.
Following an all-female group who move west to open a boarding house for men, The Crux focuses on the experience of Vivian ― and her desire for the undesirable. Deeply in love with Morton, a charismatic young man infected with both syphilis and gonorrhoea, Vivian’s expected journey through her ‘marriage’ years is abruptly turned upside down.
Review:
The Crux was an interesting reads which touches on so many important topics that it felt like it could (and should) be studied in school literature lessons. The way the role of men and women was portrayed was so important, as was the differing attitude to changing society dependent on geographical location. The role of medicine and growing understanding of illness was also prevalent and hand in hand with the becoming idea of female doctors.
Despite the range of topics covered, this was a relatively short read at c200 pages however not an easy read due to the language used at the time of publication. I also found the quantity of characters somewhat confusing to keep up with although this did make the story more interesting as you heard tales of individuals and their relationships in parallel.
One thing which also stood out to me was the nice touch of a short poem to begin each chapter.
March 3, 2022
The Crux is a little-known work from Charlotte Perkins Gilman, best known for The Yellow Wallpaper. It tells the story of a group of women who move west to begin a business together, and is a parable for what Perkins Gilman saw as the hidden dangers facing young women at the time.
Reviewing a book like this is always a conundrum. My enjoyment and appreciation of the book is as much for its historical context and insight as it is for the book itself.
📚Find this and other reviews on my blog!📚
This is where a good introduction can make a huge difference, which this book accomplishes with its new introduction by Ambrose Kelly. Kelly lays out the context brilliantly, drawing our attention to the key themes and explaining how they fit into first-wave feminism.
Having read that introduction, I enjoyed the book much more. We follow a varied group of women, from the young aspiring teacher to the world-weary doctor, as they fight to be informed and in control of their own health and futures. As broad goals, these concerns are very much still at the heart of the feminist movement, even if some of the finer details have changed.
The finer details are, in my opinion, where the most interesting part of this book lies. It sheds light on the importance of eugenics to many early white feminists. It starts an important discussion about how much feminism has changed – and how much still needs to change. What is presented by Perkins Gilman as a simple cautionary tale could potentially spark a very interesting and nuanced conversation over a century after its initial release about health, fertility and autonomy.
Thank you to the publishers for providing me with a copy for review. All opinions are my own. I have written and published this review as part of Love Books Tours.
Reviewing a book like this is always a conundrum. My enjoyment and appreciation of the book is as much for its historical context and insight as it is for the book itself.
📚Find this and other reviews on my blog!📚
This is where a good introduction can make a huge difference, which this book accomplishes with its new introduction by Ambrose Kelly. Kelly lays out the context brilliantly, drawing our attention to the key themes and explaining how they fit into first-wave feminism.
Having read that introduction, I enjoyed the book much more. We follow a varied group of women, from the young aspiring teacher to the world-weary doctor, as they fight to be informed and in control of their own health and futures. As broad goals, these concerns are very much still at the heart of the feminist movement, even if some of the finer details have changed.
The finer details are, in my opinion, where the most interesting part of this book lies. It sheds light on the importance of eugenics to many early white feminists. It starts an important discussion about how much feminism has changed – and how much still needs to change. What is presented by Perkins Gilman as a simple cautionary tale could potentially spark a very interesting and nuanced conversation over a century after its initial release about health, fertility and autonomy.
Thank you to the publishers for providing me with a copy for review. All opinions are my own. I have written and published this review as part of Love Books Tours.
March 4, 2022
I received a gifted copy of The Crux by Charlotte Perkins Gilman from Love Book Tours, in exchange for a honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
I hadn’t heard of this book before the Book Tour invitation hit my inbox and the synopsis totally intrigued me. I don’t usually read historical stories, so I didn’t have any expectations.
This book has left me conflicted. I had to keep reminding myself of the historical era that the story was set in, and society’s views at this time. There were certain parts that made me very frustrated and quite angry, especially with regards to the views of women, but on the other hand this was true to how things were during these times. It’s very important that the reader closes off any information or views that they may hold about sexually transmitted infections as well as any implications these have for reproductive purposes, and just let themselves be transported back to 1900’s. This was not as easy as it sounds for me.
This is definitely worth the read if historical books are your thing. This could also work as a book club read as there are many views and opinions of the well created characters that are very outdated but a little similar to today’s, which for my personal preferences, was quite interesting.
In my opinion, this is a marmite read - you will either really love or totally loathe it but the only way to find out is to pick it up for yourself!
I hadn’t heard of this book before the Book Tour invitation hit my inbox and the synopsis totally intrigued me. I don’t usually read historical stories, so I didn’t have any expectations.
This book has left me conflicted. I had to keep reminding myself of the historical era that the story was set in, and society’s views at this time. There were certain parts that made me very frustrated and quite angry, especially with regards to the views of women, but on the other hand this was true to how things were during these times. It’s very important that the reader closes off any information or views that they may hold about sexually transmitted infections as well as any implications these have for reproductive purposes, and just let themselves be transported back to 1900’s. This was not as easy as it sounds for me.
This is definitely worth the read if historical books are your thing. This could also work as a book club read as there are many views and opinions of the well created characters that are very outdated but a little similar to today’s, which for my personal preferences, was quite interesting.
In my opinion, this is a marmite read - you will either really love or totally loathe it but the only way to find out is to pick it up for yourself!
March 2, 2022
First published as part of a serial in The Forerunner magazine, this unique story follows a group of women opening a mens boarding house in western America. Vivian, our main narrator, is struggling with her own expectations of femininity and the societal expectation to marry and produce healthy babies, but she has fallen in love with one of the many men with a devastating STI so her journey to marriage is fraught with danger and heartbreak. She has a choice - expectation, or desire.
In it’s way, despite reading differently now, this was a statement of Perkins own feminist beliefs and her observations on society as a whole. It firmly follows the want for a woman to marry and have children which of course doesn’t follow modern feminism but it also explores the conflict and warns women to think carefully about the men she encounters and be wary of the risks they pose.
This has been out of print for quite some time now, and of course the prose is dated, it’s over a century old - but there is a charming air about the writing style that still reads quite easily and actually portrays women as three-dimensional humans with thoughts and feelings.
A story of female friendship, growing up and the roots of feminism, this is definitely a classic that everyone should add to their reading lists.
[ I was gifted a reviewers copy of this title in return for an honest review]
In it’s way, despite reading differently now, this was a statement of Perkins own feminist beliefs and her observations on society as a whole. It firmly follows the want for a woman to marry and have children which of course doesn’t follow modern feminism but it also explores the conflict and warns women to think carefully about the men she encounters and be wary of the risks they pose.
This has been out of print for quite some time now, and of course the prose is dated, it’s over a century old - but there is a charming air about the writing style that still reads quite easily and actually portrays women as three-dimensional humans with thoughts and feelings.
A story of female friendship, growing up and the roots of feminism, this is definitely a classic that everyone should add to their reading lists.
[ I was gifted a reviewers copy of this title in return for an honest review]
March 12, 2022
I already knew this author from having read her famous, brilliant short story “The Yellow Wallpaper”, so I was really curious to read more from her.
“The Crux” is a simple, brief novel in terms of plot and yet extremely complex in the ideologies and themes discussed. Set in early 20th century America, in a suburban town in New England, it follows the life of Vivian, a young woman torn between a desire for more and her duty as a woman. Transitioning from her small-town upbringing to the “wild” and unknown West, Vivian moves to Colorado with a few friends, all women, to set up a boarding house for men.
I found this novel unsettling and controversial. Notions of women’s independence and right to study at university sit uncomfortably next to ideas of women’s duty to marry and procreate. Of course, one must bear in mind that this story was born out of different century and a different mindset. Nonetheless, I believe it offers some interesting food for thought on certain topics still relevant today such as feminism, female camaraderie, anxiety over sexually-transmitted diseases, the role of women as “good influences” on men, social expectations, and eugenic ideology.
“The Crux” is a simple, brief novel in terms of plot and yet extremely complex in the ideologies and themes discussed. Set in early 20th century America, in a suburban town in New England, it follows the life of Vivian, a young woman torn between a desire for more and her duty as a woman. Transitioning from her small-town upbringing to the “wild” and unknown West, Vivian moves to Colorado with a few friends, all women, to set up a boarding house for men.
I found this novel unsettling and controversial. Notions of women’s independence and right to study at university sit uncomfortably next to ideas of women’s duty to marry and procreate. Of course, one must bear in mind that this story was born out of different century and a different mindset. Nonetheless, I believe it offers some interesting food for thought on certain topics still relevant today such as feminism, female camaraderie, anxiety over sexually-transmitted diseases, the role of women as “good influences” on men, social expectations, and eugenic ideology.
February 25, 2022
I had started this book thinking that it was a modern novel but discovered that it was actually written in 1911 by a writer who was a strong feminist. I did feel however that the dystopian feel to the plot meant that it is still enjoyable and not dated. The female characters prominently reflect the writers beliefs and campaigns for social change. as
The plot follows a group of forward thinking women who move to become independent in a society and age where women very much still have their designated ‘duties’. A story of bravery and determination but also of heartache and sacrifice, particularly for the main female protagonist Vivian. Vivian moves for a life where she can be happy with the person that she wants to be with, however finds herself having to make the ultimate decision. Although I really liked the characters in the book and the strong message that Gillman gives through the book, the story was a little difficult for me to get into and I found it very difficult to read at times. If you enjoy feminist fiction then this may be for you though…
The plot follows a group of forward thinking women who move to become independent in a society and age where women very much still have their designated ‘duties’. A story of bravery and determination but also of heartache and sacrifice, particularly for the main female protagonist Vivian. Vivian moves for a life where she can be happy with the person that she wants to be with, however finds herself having to make the ultimate decision. Although I really liked the characters in the book and the strong message that Gillman gives through the book, the story was a little difficult for me to get into and I found it very difficult to read at times. If you enjoy feminist fiction then this may be for you though…
February 24, 2022
The first half of this book was excellent. It’s slightly satirical and well-observed, with characters that you can picture easily enough. It was amusing and also felt quite modern; I was very surprised that all of these women were able to travel unchaperoned to effectively start a business.
What I like about reading books from different eras is getting a sense of the beliefs of the time, which in this book - no matter what you think - are very interesting.
Unfortunately the second half of the book dragged somewhat. It also felt like the author was pushing their own agenda a bit too much, which I didn’t particularly like.
The Crux has always been a controversial story, but readers in 1911 may have taken issue with different elements to a modern audience.
It’s definitely interesting and a fantastic book to discuss, but after a promising start, there just wasn’t enough structure or humour for me.
I received a copy from Love Book Tours and Leamington Books. Opinions my own.
What I like about reading books from different eras is getting a sense of the beliefs of the time, which in this book - no matter what you think - are very interesting.
Unfortunately the second half of the book dragged somewhat. It also felt like the author was pushing their own agenda a bit too much, which I didn’t particularly like.
The Crux has always been a controversial story, but readers in 1911 may have taken issue with different elements to a modern audience.
It’s definitely interesting and a fantastic book to discuss, but after a promising start, there just wasn’t enough structure or humour for me.
I received a copy from Love Book Tours and Leamington Books. Opinions my own.
February 17, 2019
At her best Gilman is witty and her writings can still inspire and empower women. Alas she isn't at her best in "The Crux", a story of multiple romances blossoming in a nondescript frontier town where a bunch of New England spinsters and widows have relocated for a variety of reasons. The main message, that girls should be educated about the prevalence of STD and avoid marrying men who are infected, is buried within a succession of indifferent drawing room comedy scenes. The final, highly predictable snub to the flirtatious and mercenary Adela St Cloud makes for a silly, moralistic ending to the story.
July 16, 2025
This is an odd book! Published in 1911, it features a group of women who move westward to find a better life. At first, it seems like a simplistic romance -there are plenty of eligible men in the boarding house they run. But then our heroine faces the peril of sexually transmitted disease (rampant among careless young men) which could render her future children disabled or dead. The solution Gilman poses for this scourge is eugenics. Does Vivian marry the syphilitic young man or find someone with a clean bill of health? Guess.
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