Scenes and Characters, or, Eighteen Months at Beechcroft

"Scenes and Characters, or, Eighteen Months at Beechcroft" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a novel likely composed during the late 19th century, reflecting the social milieu of that time. The story revolves around the Mohun family, particularly focusing on the eldest daughter, Eleanor, as she navigates the duties and responsibilities that come with family life while also dealing with personal sacrifices and the dynamics with her younger sisters, Lilias, Emily, and Jane. The opening of the novel introduces Eleanor Mohun, who has taken on the role of caretaker for her younger siblings during a period of familial grief following their mother's illness and eventual death. As she forgoes her own happiness and an engagement to Mr. Francis Hawkesworth to support her father and siblings, the narrative establishes her character as steadfast and dutiful. The dynamics between the sisters are also explored, highlighting their differing personalities and approaches to duty and affection. Eleanor's serious nature is contrasted with the more carefree spirits of her sisters, setting the stage for an exploration of themes such as love, duty, and the complexities of familial bonds throughout the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Charlotte Mary Yonge was an English novelist, who wrote in the service of the church. Her abundant books helped to spread the influence of the Oxford Movement and showed her keen interest in matters of public health and sanitation.