One-line summary:

“Falling Angels” is a captivating historical novel that explores the lives of two families in Edwardian England, revealing the complexities of societal expectations, the suffragette movement, and the impact of World War I.

Introduction:

Set in Edwardian England, Tracy Chevalier’s “Falling Angels” delves into the lives of two families, the Waterhouses and the Colemans, as they navigate the changing social landscape of the early 20th century. Through the eyes of the Waterhouse daughters and the Coleman maid, the novel explores themes of class, gender roles, suffrage, and the devastating effects of World War I. With a blend of historical accuracy and compelling storytelling, Chevalier crafts a thought-provoking narrative that captures the essence of a society on the brink of transformation.

The Waterhouses and the Colemans: A Tale of Two Families:

The Waterhouses, a middle-class family, and the Colemans, an upper-class family, are brought together by the death of Queen Victoria. As the families visit the cemetery to pay their respects, their lives become intertwined. The Waterhouse daughters, Maude and Lavinia, strike up a friendship with the Coleman daughters, Ivy and Kitty, despite their differences in social status. Through their interactions, Chevalier highlights the stark contrast between the expectations placed on women of different classes during this time period.

Suffrage and Social Change:

As the suffragette movement gains momentum, the Waterhouse sisters find themselves drawn to the cause. Maude, the elder sister, becomes increasingly involved in the fight for women’s rights, attending rallies and participating in protests. Lavinia, on the other hand, struggles with her own beliefs and the societal pressure to conform. Through their experiences, Chevalier explores the complexities of the suffrage movement and the challenges faced by women who dared to challenge the status quo.

The Impact of World War I:

With the outbreak of World War I, the lives of both families are irrevocably changed. The men enlist, leaving the women to grapple with their absence and the uncertainty of war. As the conflict rages on, the novel delves into the emotional toll it takes on the characters, highlighting the devastating consequences of war on both the home front and the battlefield. Chevalier expertly captures the fear, loss, and resilience of a nation at war, painting a vivid picture of the era.

Key Takeaways:

• The societal expectations placed on women in Edwardian England were restrictive and often stifling, but some women dared to challenge these norms and fight for their rights.
• The suffragette movement played a crucial role in shaping women’s rights and challenging the patriarchal society of the time.
• World War I had a profound impact on society, disrupting traditional gender roles and exposing the horrors of war.

Memorable Quote:

“We are all falling angels, and we all need to be saved.”

In “Falling Angels,” Tracy Chevalier skillfully weaves together the lives of two families against the backdrop of Edwardian England, exploring themes of class, gender, suffrage, and the devastating effects of war. Through her vivid storytelling, Chevalier invites readers to reflect on the complexities of societal expectations and the resilience of the human spirit.