CB... still....
Posted by Stolzi on October 24, 1997 at 12:46:21:
In response to More JE..., written by Amy2 on October 20, 1997 at 12:49:49
] Yes, Mrs. Gaskell definitely knew about Charlotte's love letters to M. Heger because she SAW them! But as she was presenting Charlotte in THE LIFE as a "victim among the tombstones" & the ltrs didn't jive with her take so she suppressed them. In fact, Charlotte was much more than a pathetic victim surrounded by death: she was ambitious; she had a lively sense of humour; she was a very loyal friend & correspondent. And she was NOT always impeccably moral, as you can see in her Juvenalia & letters to M. Heger.
I always jump when the word "bastard" is openly used of Adele Varens!
Glad you brought up Charlotte's humour, which many biographers seem to deny. Why, it's the life and soul of JE -- the many pinpricks she hands Mr R are delightful. Or think of her description to StJohn of the massive cleaning-up and cooking frenzy she intends for Diana and Mary's arrival.
[ If you want to read a more accurate bio, my fave in Lyndall Gordon's CHARLOTTE BRONTE: A PASSIONATE LIFE.
Am not familiar with this one, but thanks for the recommend; maybe I can find it.
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