3 Review(s)

The story follows the life of the protagonist, Neal Thornton, who begins as a carefree, humorous young man but gradually matures and becomes more earnest and responsible as the novel progresses. The title "From Jest to Earnest" alludes to this transformation. The novel explores themes of personal growth, responsibility, and the challenges and moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate the complexities of life and society.Edward Payson Roe's works often addressed social and moral issues of his time, and "From Jest to Earnest" is no exception. It is a character-driven narrative that reflects the values and moral development of its time, making it a significant work of 19th-century American literature.