Ann Brontë's The Tenant of Wildfell Hall was a smash hit on publication and sold out faster than Emily's Wuthering Heights. Why is it then not as well known as Jane Eyre or Wuthering Heights? Could it be Charlotte's jealousy (the bad review and with-holding the republication)? Was it not romantic enough? Or is the reason a simple 'coz it is just not as good'?
They say the concept was unheard of, for it's time and was akin to a bombshell for the victorian crowd. It is considered to be the first feminist novel. I have seen Jane Eyre described as one of the great decision making heroines of literature. Helen Graham, in my opinion, leaves Jane way behind in feminist credentials.
Just to keep things in context, Ann was the daughter of a poor Irish clergyman who for the most of her life lived on Yorkshire moors. Ann Brontë's achievement is staggering.
They say the concept was unheard of, for it's time and was akin to a bombshell for the victorian crowd. It is considered to be the first feminist novel. I have seen Jane Eyre described as one of the great decision making heroines of literature. Helen Graham, in my opinion, leaves Jane way behind in feminist credentials.
Just to keep things in context, Ann was the daughter of a poor Irish clergyman who for the most of her life lived on Yorkshire moors. Ann Brontë's achievement is staggering.
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