The Brontë Project 2021 discussion

Let's discuss Volume 2 of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall!

I am really enjoying reading Helen's journal. It seems to me to be a rather classic version of a soap opera! I am amazed at how much Anne Bronte was able to tap into what life is probably like within an abusive and alcoholic household. I feel for Helen and how trapped she is by the laws and circumstances of her time. Bronte demonstrates a very strong understanding of how those laws and circumstances, more than was typical for her age.

I am finding myself hooked on this novel and wanting to see what happens next. Bronte's storytelling is accessible and interesting, and her ability to create an interesting voice in Helen is much to her credit. In fact, I like her far more as the narrator than I do Gilbert. I am looking forward to volume three, to seeing how all of this works out and what happens to Gilbert and Helen in the end.