3 Review(s)

What She Could by Susan Warner is a novel that delves into themes of moral growth, social expectations, and personal responsibility. Set against a background of familial interactions and community life, the story follows a group of characters navigating the challenges of their lives. The central focus is on the character Matilda, who is portrayed as conscientious and often caught up in reflecting on her actions, especially when compared to her more carefree sister Maria. The characters' relationships are explored in domestic settings, revealing subtle dynamics of selflessness, duty, and the pressures of societal roles. Through its portrayal of these characters' daily lives, the novel examines the balance between personal desires and moral obligations, urging readers to consider the consequences of their actions in a larger context of social responsibility. Warner’s writing highlights the intricate interplay between individual choices and the influence of community, all while maintaining a focus on the moral undertones that define the characters’ development. This novel exemplifies Warner’s style of combining didacticism with the portrayal of everyday life, a hallmark of her literary output. Her works often integrate Christian values with rich social commentary.