Like KS’s previous book The Suspicions of Mr Whicher - similarly memorable - this one shapes an entirely factual story so skillfully that it acquires most of the qualities of literary fiction. It’s a meticulous, compelling account of a sensational mid-19th century divorce case in England and the events leading up to it. I can't think of any other book that gives such a moving insight into a woman's experience of marriage and sexuality in that period. An in-depth look at Victorian repression of sexuality and its consequences, not only for the titular Mrs Robinson, but for 19th century British society as a whole. Summerscale brings in references to contemporary literature, medical and psychological practices, social attitudes and cultural shifts around the definitions of marriage, divorce, and female sexuality to place the narrative of Mrs. Robinson's diary and subsequent divorce proceedings in a wider context. The result is informative and fascinating.
Do You like book La Rovina Di Mrs Robinson (2013)?
Interesting peek into Victorian life (especially for women) in Europe in the 1800s.
—flaviaberton
Made me glad I wasn't born in Victorian times!
—Rei
