Duration: 4:51

19 views

0

"Lilli De Jong" by Janet Benton is a historical novel that explores the struggles of a young woman in late 19th century Philadelphia. The novel is set in 1883, and follows the life of Lilli De Jong, an unmarried Quaker woman who becomes pregnant after a brief affair with a young man who dies before he can marry her. The novel explores themes of motherhood, family, religion, and society's treatment of unmarried mothers.The novel is written in a diary format, and this format provides an intimate insight into Lilli's innermost thoughts and emotions. The diary is also an effective narrative device that allows the reader to witness Lilli's growth and transformation throughout the novel. The use of first-person narration also allows the reader to empathize with Lilli's struggles and challenges.The novel's setting is significant as it provides a backdrop to the cultural, social, and religious attitudes of the time. Philadelphia in the late 19th century was a conservative and religious city, and Lilli's Quaker upbringing plays a significant role in shaping her beliefs and values. The novel explores the tension between Lilli's religious beliefs and societal norms and expectations.One of the key themes in the novel is motherhood, and the novel presents a complex and nuanced portrayal of motherhood. Lilli's pregnancy forces her to confront the realities of motherhood and the challenges that come with it. The novel challenges the idea of a "natural" motherhood by exploring the difficulties of breastfeeding, the physical and emotional toll of childbirth, and the social stigma attached to unmarried mothers. The novel also explores the societal pressures on women to be good mothers, the expectations placed on them, and the sacrifices they make for their children.Another significant theme in the novel is the role of religion in society. Lilli's Quaker upbringing shapes her beliefs and values, and the novel explores the tensions between religious beliefs and societal norms. The novel also explores the role of religion in providing comfort and support in times of need, and the ways in which religious institutions can also be oppressive and restrictive.The novel also explores the theme of family and the importance of familial bonds. Lilli's relationship with her mother is a central theme, and the novel presents a complex and nuanced portrayal of their relationship. The novel also explores the idea of chosen family, and the importance of finding support and love in unconventional places.Finally, the novel explores the theme of societal norms and expectations, particularly in relation to gender roles and sexuality. The novel challenges the idea of "appropriate" behavior for women and explores the double standards that exist in society. The novel also challenges the idea of female sexuality as sinful or immoral and presents a nuanced portrayal of sexuality as a natural and essential aspect of human experience.In conclusion, "Lilli De Jong" by Janet Benton is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the struggles of a young woman in late 19th century Philadelphia. Through Lilli's diary entries, the novel provides an intimate insight into her innermost thoughts and emotions, and the novel's themes of motherhood, family, religion, and societal expectations are presented in a complex and nuanced manner. The novel is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the human experience and the challenges we face in navigating the complexities of society and the world around us.