The Bostonians
About this book
First published in 1886, The Bostonians is one of James' wittiest social satires. It begins with the arrival in Boston of Basil Ransom, in search of a career. The book turns on the relationship between Ransom, a conservative civil war veteran, his feminist cousin Olive Chancellor, and Verena Tarrant, a newcomer to their circle whose affections are sought by both Olive and Basil.James' ambivalence towards the reformist movement is made plain in this novel, which is crowded with eccentric and colourful characters. The narrative moves us in turns to sneer at the Boston reformers and to sympathise with Olive as she struggles to keep the reformist flame burning in her protege's heart.
Reader Profile
3.6/5 · 8208 readers · Demanding
What genre is The Bostonians?
It sits on the Historical Fiction, Fiction shelves.
Has The Bostonians been made into a movie or TV show?
Yes — screen adaptations include The Bostonians (1985), The Bostonians (1984).
Is The Bostonians in the public domain?
Yes — it is free to read and share.
Who are the main characters in The Bostonians?
The main characters include Henry James (1843-1916).
Where does The Bostonians take place?
It is set in Boston (Mass.), New York (N.Y.).
Who wrote The Bostonians?
Henry James.
Where can I read The Bostonians online for free?
It is in the public domain — read it free on Open Library