Henry James's The Bostonians is praised for its keen social commentary and intricate characterizations. It skillfully delves into themes of feminism and political change but is sometimes critiqued for its dense prose and slow pacing. Overall, it stands out as a thought-provoking novel that juxtaposes progressive and conservative ideologies of the late 19th century.

A reader who enjoys The Bostonians by Henry James likely appreciates nuanced psychological portraits and social commentary on gender and politics. Fans of Middlemarch by George Eliot or The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton, which similarly explore complex relationships and moral dilemmas within society, would find it compelling.

In Henry James's The Bostonians, Northern feminist Olive Chancellor and Southern conservative Basil Ransom vie for the affection and ideological alliance of the captivating young Verena Tarrant, embodying the post-Civil War cultural clash between traditional and modern values in America.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Melancholic / Challenging

- The Bostonians was originally published as a serial in The Century Magazine from 1885 to 1886 before being published as a book in 1886.
- The novel is considered a pivotal work in the American literary realism movement and explores themes of feminism and reform politics during the post-Civil War era.
- The Bostonians is notable for being one of Henry James's first works to focus extensively on American female characters and the women's movement.

**Verena Tarrant**  
A young woman with an extraordinary gift for public speaking, she is characterized by her innocence and naivety, often being influenced and controlled by those around her.

**Olive Chancellor**  
An affluent Bostonian deeply committed to the cause of women's equality, her dedication is often marked by her manipulative efforts to shape those around her.

**Basil Ransom**  
A Mississippian and Confederate veteran struggling to find his place in post-Civil War Northern society, he holds traditional views that clash with the progressive ideals of those around him.

**Adeline Luna**  
Olive Chancellor’s older sister, who is fashion-conscious, socially active in New York, and personally interested in remarrying.

**Miss Birdseye**  
An elderly philanthropist and activist who has long been involved in various progressive causes, depicted with a humorous touch to her earnest commitments. 

**Dr. Mary J. Prance**  
A female doctor portrayed as practical and independent, often seen as unfeminine due to her dedication to her medical career.

**Mr. Matthias Pardon**  
A reporter and editor with a keen interest in news and publicity, particularly eager to capitalize on Verena Tarrant’s public speaking talent.

**Dr. Selah Tarrant**  
Verena's father, a mesmeric healer with aspirations of fame, he is often preoccupied with promoting his daughter’s talents.

**Mrs. Tarrant**  
Verena's mother, who hopes to elevate her family's social standing through her daughter’s abilities.

**Mrs. Burrage**  
The affluent mother of Mr. Henry Burrage, she is keen on societal appearances and attempts to involve her son with Verena.

**Mr. Burrage**  
A young, Harvard-educated man with an appreciation for unique and beautiful things, including Verena Tarrant.

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book First: Chapters 1-3	

The Bostonians Book First: Chapters 1-3	 Summary & Analysis

Book First: Chapters 4-6	

The Bostonians Book First: Chapters 4-6	 Summary & Analysis

Book First: Chapters 7-13	

The Bostonians Book First: Chapters 7-13	 Summary & Analysis

Book First: Chapters 14-20

The Bostonians Book First: Chapters 14-20 Summary & Analysis

Book Second: Chapters 21-25	

The Bostonians Book Second: Chapters 21-25	 Summary & Analysis

Book Second: Chapters 26-30

The Bostonians Book Second: Chapters 26-30 Summary & Analysis

Book Second: Chapters 31-34

The Bostonians Book Second: Chapters 31-34 Summary & Analysis

Book Third: Chapters 35-42

The Bostonians Book Third: Chapters 35-42 Summary & Analysis

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The Bostonians Character Analysis

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The Bostonians Symbols & Motifs

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The Bostonians

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