Belinda

Synopsis

'It is singular, that my having spent a winter with one of the most dissipated women in England should have sobered my mind so completely.' Maria Edgeworth's 1801 novel, Belinda, is an absorbing, sometimes provocative, tale of social and domestic life among the English aristocracy and gentry. The heroine of the title, only too conscious of being 'advertised' on the marriage market, grows in moral maturity as she seeks to balance self-fulfilment with achieving material success. Among those whom she encounters are the socialite Lady Delacour, whose brilliance and wit hide a tragic secret, the radical feminist Harriot Freke, the handsome and wealthy Creole gentleman Mr Vincent, and the mercurial Clarence Hervey, whose misguided idealism has led him into a series of near-catastrophic mistakes. In telling their story Maria Edgeworth gives a vivid picture of life in late eighteenth-century London, skilfully showing both the attractions of leisured society and its darker side, and blending drawing-room comedy with challenging themes involving serious illness, obsession, slavery and interracial marriage.

Summary

Chapter 1: Arrivals

Belinda arrives at the beach resort of Coogee for a summer vacation with her family. She is immediately disappointed by the lack of a beach but is intrigued by the "Blue Lagoon," a saltwater pool. She meets a group of children, including Brett and Angela, and they quickly become friends.

Chapter 2: The Blue Lagoon

Belinda and her new friends spend most of their days swimming in the Blue Lagoon. They play games, race, and dive for shells. Belinda is a strong swimmer and enjoys the freedom of the lagoon. However, she soon becomes aware of the dangers lurking beneath the surface, as she witnesses a near-drowning incident.

Chapter 3: The Underwater World

Belinda is fascinated by the underwater world and decides to explore it further. She borrows a snorkel and mask and ventures into the lagoon. She is amazed by the vibrant coral and colorful fish. However, she also encounters a large stingray, which frightens her back to the shore.

Chapter 4: The Beach Race

A beach race is organized by the hotel staff, and Belinda decides to compete. She is determined to win, but she faces stiff competition from Angela and another girl named Sue. Belinda runs hard but ultimately comes in second place. Despite her disappointment, she learns the value of sportsmanship.

Chapter 5: The Secret Cave

Belinda hears rumors of a secret cave located on the beach. She decides to investigate with Brett and Angela. They find the cave and explore its dark interior. They discover a hidden pool and decide to swim in it. However, they soon realize that they are not alone in the cave and encounter a group of unsavory characters.

Chapter 6: The Storm

A sudden storm hits the beach, and Belinda and her friends are caught in the middle of it. They seek shelter in the secret cave, but the waves are crashing against the entrance and blocking their escape. They become frightened and trapped, but Brett and Angela come up with a plan to signal for help.

Chapter 7: Rescue

Belinda and her friends are rescued from the cave by lifeguards and taken back to the hotel. They are shaken but unharmed, and they realize how lucky they were to escape. Belinda is grateful to Brett and Angela for their bravery and friendship.

Chapter 8: Homeward Bound

Belinda's vacation comes to an end, and she says goodbye to her new friends. She reflects on her adventures at Coogee and the lessons she has learned about friendship, courage, and the importance of respecting the dangers of nature.