3 Review(s)

"The Chaplet of Pearls" is set in 16th-century France and tells the story of the Mowbray family, particularly the sisters, Ethel and Isabel. The novel follows the lives of these two young women, their relationships, and the choices they make as they navigate the moral and religious dilemmas of their time.The chaplet of pearls referenced in the title is a metaphorical representation of the moral choices that the characters face throughout the story. The pearls symbolize the virtues and values that the characters must uphold, and the novel delves into their struggles to make the right decisions, particularly in the face of societal pressures and personal temptations.Charlotte M. Yonge's works often emphasize the importance of faith, virtue, and moral character. "The Chaplet of Pearls" is no exception, and it reflects the author's devout Anglican faith and her belief in the significance of moral and religious education.The novel also provides a historical backdrop, set against the religious and political conflicts of 16th-century France, which adds depth to the narrative and underscores the challenges faced by the characters in upholding their beliefs.While Charlotte M. Yonge's works may not be as widely read today as they were in the 19th century, they are valuable for their exploration of Victorian-era values and the moral and religious issues of the time. "The Chaplet of Pearls" is one of her notable contributions to the genre of Victorian domestic and moral fiction.