Appassionata

by Fannie Hurst

Fannie Hurst's novel "Appassionata" focuses on the inner struggles of Laura Regan, a young woman engaged to marry a man named Dudley. However, Laura experiences a profound internal conflict concerning her desire for marriage, a desire that seems to lack a physical dimension.

On the verge of her wedding to Dudley, Laura undergoes a pivotal experience which leads her to believe that her true happiness lies in a different kind of union: becoming a "Bride of the Church". She consequently decides to enter a convent.

Hurst explores Laura's emotional journey towards this decision in detail, portraying it as a powerful, albeit potentially "unpleasant," path. The novel delves into the psychological and emotional reasons behind Laura's choice to abandon her conventional engagement and pursue a religious life.

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1926

About the author

Fannie Hurst was born in Ohio, grew up in St. Louis and spent her adult life in New York City. She is the author of 17 novels and more than 250 short stories, as well as plays, screenplays, memoirs, essays and articles. Her best-remembered works are those turned into films, including: Imitation of Life, Back Street, Humoresque, The Younger Generation, and Young at Heart. She was active in a variety of progressive Jewish, social justice, labor, peace and women’s organizations. A lifelong philanthropist, Hurst willed her considerable estate to her alma mater Washington University and to Brandeis University.