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Susan

Written by Ernest Oldmeadow

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BritishYoung womenLove storiesEpistolary fictionDiary fictionHousehold employees

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About this book

"Susan" by Ernest Oldmeadow is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Gertrude, a young woman who is both conflicted and protective regarding her maid, Susan, who is caught in the emotional turmoil of an unexpected romantic overture from a suitor. As the narrative unfolds, it showcases the intricacies of class distinctions, personal sacrifice, and the challenges of navigating relationships during a time dictated by societal norms. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to Gertrude and highlights her relationship with Susan, especially in light of Susan's recent preoccupation with a romantic letter she received from a man identifying himself as "Lord Ruddington." While Gertrude initially wrestles with her own feelings of annoyance and possessiveness over Susan, she soon discovers the depth of Susan's emotional struggles and fears regarding love and marriage. As their lives begin to intertwine with the prospect of Susan's potential engagement, Gertrude’s protective instincts kick in, leading to various contemplations about duty, affection, and societal expectations. The details vividly portray their daily lives, establishing a strong foundation for both characters, while laying the groundwork for the ensuing conflicts and comedic elements.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Susan, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • romantic
  • humorous
  • social commentary

Ernest Oldmeadow's early 20th-century novel, "Susan," delves into the complex relationship between Gertrude, a young woman of means, and her maid, Susan, whose life is upended by an unexpected romantic proposal. The narrative explores Gertrude's initial annoyance and possessiveness evolving into deep protective instincts as Susan grapples with the prospect of love and marriage, particularly from a mysterious suitor named Lord Ruddington. Through their intertwined lives, the story meticulously examines the rigid class distinctions, personal sacrifices, and the pervasive influence of societal norms prevalent during the era. It blends elements of comedic observation with poignant emotional struggles, laying a rich foundation for character development and conflict.

“"One cannot simply dismiss a Lord, even if he writes with the flourish of a poet and the presumption of a king."”

Key themes

Class Distinctions and Social Norms
The novel critically examines the rigid class structures of early 20th-century society and how they dictate relationships, opportunities, and personal agency. It highlights the inherent power imbalances and expectations between mistress and maid, and how a romantic overture can challenge or reinforce these boundaries. The characters' internal and external conflicts are often rooted in their respective places within the social hierarchy.
Love, Marriage, and Personal Sacrifice
At its core, the novel explores the complexities of romantic love and the societal institution of marriage, particularly from a woman's perspective. It delves into Susan's emotional struggles with fear, hope, and uncertainty surrounding a potential engagement. The theme extends to Gertrude's reflections on duty and affection, suggesting that love, whether romantic or platonic, often demands personal sacrifice and challenges individual comfort.
The Nature of Female Relationships and Empathy
A significant theme is the evolving bond between Gertrude and Susan, demonstrating how genuine human connection can bridge social divides. The novel portrays the nuances of female relationships, moving beyond employer-employee roles to explore mutual concern, understanding, and protective instincts. It highlights the capacity for empathy and solidarity even within a rigid social framework.

Worth discussing

How does the novel explore the concept of duty versus personal desire, particularly for Gertrude and Susan?

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