Spellbinders

"Spellbinders" by Margaret Culkin Banning is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the interrelations and societal dynamics among women in a politically charged environment, focusing on characters like Gage and Helen Flandon, as they navigate friendship, ambition, and the impact of feminism. The narrative delves into themes of self-identity and the challenges that women face both within the domestic sphere and the public realm. The opening of the novel introduces Gage Flandon and his wife, Helen, as they prepare to meet Helen's assertive friend, Margaret Duffield. Gage expresses his apprehension about strong-minded women, indicating an underlying tension regarding Helen's evolving interests in feminism and politics, which clash with his traditional views. As they arrive at the Brownley home for a gathering, Gage's prejudices against women like Margaret are highlighted through his internal conflict and disapproval of their social influence, setting the stage for complex interactions that will define the relationships among the characters throughout the book.