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Cover of Old-Dad

Old-Dad

Written by Eleanor Hallowell Abbott

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United StatesFathers and daughtersMan-woman relationships

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About this book

"Old-Dad" by Eleanor Hallowell Abbott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Daphne Bretton, a young college student who faces expulsion after a scandal involving a boy in her dorm room. As she navigates the challenges of her troubled relationship with her father, Jaffrey Bretton, the complexities of youthful innocence and the deeper themes of family dynamics, reputation, and self-identity unfold. The opening of "Old-Dad" introduces us to Daphne during a moment of crisis as she bursts into her father's study to reveal her expulsion from college. The interaction between them is charged with both humor and tension, showcasing their unfamiliarity and the strained relationship between father and daughter. Jaffrey’s youthful demeanor and unexpected reactions add to the story's complexity, making it clear that he, too, is grappling with the implications of his daughter's predicament. As they confront the fallout, including Daphne's escalating shame and confusion about her actions and societal perceptions, the groundwork is laid for a deeper exploration of their characters and the challenges ahead.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Old-Dad, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Humorous
  • Tense
  • Reflective

Eleanor Hallowell Abbott's "Old-Dad" introduces Daphne Bretton, a young college student facing expulsion due to a dormitory scandal, thrusting her into a tumultuous relationship with her estranged, youthful father, Jaffrey. The novel navigates Daphne's escalating shame and confusion, forcing both father and daughter to confront their unfamiliarity and the complexities of their bond. As they grapple with societal perceptions and personal integrity, the story unfolds as a poignant exploration of family dynamics, the fragility of reputation, and the journey of self-discovery amidst youthful indiscretion. It blends humor with tension, highlighting their individual struggles to understand each other and themselves.

“"Expelled! For a boy? What precisely does 'a boy' entail, Daphne, in the lexicon of collegiate scandal?"”

Key themes

Family Dynamics and Reconciliation
The central theme revolves around the strained and unfamiliar relationship between Daphne and her father, Jaffrey. The novel explores how a crisis can force family members to confront their emotional distance, communicate, and ultimately build a stronger, more authentic bond through understanding and forgiveness.
Reputation and Social Scrutiny
The novel deeply explores the fragility of reputation, especially for young women in the early 20th century. Daphne's expulsion highlights the severe consequences of social transgressions and the intense scrutiny individuals face, forcing her to grapple with public perception versus her private reality.
Youthful Innocence and the Acquisition of Experience
Daphne's journey is a classic coming-of-age narrative, exploring the transition from youthful naivety to a more mature understanding of the world and oneself. Her 'scandal' serves as a harsh introduction to the complexities of adult life, moral ambiguity, and personal responsibility.

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How does the novel portray the complexities of the father-daughter relationship, particularly when there's a significant emotional distance?

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