Marriage

This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design. Set in early 20th-century England, H.G. Wells' "Marriage" introduces Marjorie Pope, a young woman traveling by train to her family in Buryhamstreet. Her journey reflects her modest upbringing and aspirations, while grappling with societal expectations and personal desires. Marjorie's character is marked by elegance and the incongruities of her life, symbolized by her mismatched luggage. This contrast highlights her internal struggle between societal norms and her own ambitions, encapsulating themes of identity, love, and marriage.



Marjorie's family dynamics reveal her father's complex relationship with religion, mirroring her own spiritual uncertainty. Raised in an environment skeptical of traditional beliefs, she navigates societal pressures amidst a world prioritizing pleasure over moral clarity. Her story reflects a generation seeking fulfillment amidst the disintegration of established norms. Influenced by her politically driven Aunt Plessington, Marjorie faces expectations of social ambition, yet she dreams of a carefree, adventurous life, contrasting sharply with the affluent lifestyles she envies.



Upon arriving home, Marjorie reunites with her lively family, including her siblings, Daffy and Theodore, and their dog, Toupee. Their playful banter contrasts with the wealth she has witnessed, and the picturesque village evokes nostalgia and simplicity. The vicarage, a symbol of adventure and freedom, invites Marjorie to reconnect with her roots amid aspirations for a more glamorous life.



As Marjorie settles into family life, her affection for Rom hints at a budding relationship. Her focus shifts with impending parenthood, as her relationship with Trafford deepens from personal ambitions to shared experiences. While Trafford initially prioritizes his research, the anticipation of their child shifts his perspective on fatherhood. Health challenges prompt a move to the countryside, nurturing Marjorie's well-being and creativity. The narrative weaves themes of love, parenthood, and the balance between ambition and personal fulfillment, as Marjorie's journey underscores the evolving dynamics of family and identity.