Malbone: An Oldport Romance

"Malbone: An Oldport Romance" by Thomas Wentworth Higginson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Oldport, where various characters intertwine in themes of love, social dynamics, and family relationships. Focused on the lives of Philip Malbone, Hope, and their relatives, the tale captures the complexities of human emotions against a picturesque backdrop. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the idyllic setting of Oldport, marked by scenic vistas and a comfortable summer ambiance. Aunt Jane, a central character with a strong presence, awaits the arrival of her relatives, including the charming Malbone and the enigmatic Emilia. The narrative hints at underlying tensions, particularly regarding Malbone's flirtatious nature and the dynamics between Emilia and Hope. The opening portion establishes a vibrant familial tableau enriched by humor, affection, and anticipation, setting the stage for the romantic entanglements and social interactions that will drive the plot forward. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Thomas Wentworth Higginson, who went by the name Wentworth, was an American Unitarian minister, author, abolitionist, politician, and soldier. He was active in abolitionism in the United States during the 1840s and 1850s, identifying himself with disunion and militant abolitionism. He was a member of the Secret Six who supported John Brown. During the Civil War, he served as colonel of the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, the first federally authorized black regiment, from 1862 to 1864. Following the war, he wrote about his experiences with African-American soldiers and devoted much of the rest of his life to fighting for the rights of freed people, women, and other disfranchised peoples. He is also remembered as a mentor to poet Emily Dickinson.