Evelina, or, The History of a Young Lady's Entrance Into the World

Synopsis

'Lord Orville did me the honour to hand me to the coach, talking all the way of the honour I had done him! O these fashionable people!' Frances Burney's first and most enduringly popular novel is a vivid, satirical, and seductive account of the pleasures and dangers of fashionable life in late eighteenth-century London. As she describes her heroine's entry into society, womanhood and, inevitably, love, Burney exposes the vulnerability of female innocence in an image-conscious and often cruel world where social snobbery and sexual aggression are played out in the public arenas of pleasure-gardens, theatre visits, and balls. But Evelina's innocence also makes her a shrewd commentator on the excesses and absurdities of manners and social ambitions - as well as attracting the attention of the eminently eligible Lord Orville. Evelina, comic and shrewd, is at once a guide to fashionable London, a satirical attack on the new consumerism, an investigation of women's position in the late eighteenth century, and a love story. The new introduction and full notes to this edition help make this richness all the more readily available to a modern reader. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Summary

Chapter 1:

The first chapter of "Evelina" introduces us to the titular character, Evelina Anville, a young and innocent lady who is set to make her entrance into London society. The chapter begins with her arrival at Howard Grove, the country home of the Branghtons, the family of her mother's guardian. Evelina is welcomed warmly by the Branghtons, but also feels slightly out of place in their boisterous and uncultured household. This is foreshadowing for the challenges and cultural clashes Evelina will face in her introduction to society.

The real-life example that can be drawn from this chapter is the experience of a young debutante being introduced to their first season in London. Just like Evelina, many young ladies from the upper class were sent to live with relatives in the country to gain etiquette and social graces before being presented to society. This was an important rite of passage, as it signaled their readiness to enter the glamorous and competitive world of London's elite.

Chapter 2:

In this chapter, Evelina meets the Branghtons' neighbors, the Mirvans, who are a more refined and fashionable family. They invite Evelina and the Branghtons to join them for a day in London, giving Evelina her first taste of the city. Evelina is immediately taken by the bustling streets and the glamorous sights of London, but also becomes aware of the social hierarchies and gossip that surround her.

The real-life example that can be drawn from this chapter is the phenomenon of the "London season." This was a period between January and June in which London society was in full swing, with elaborate parties and events being held almost every night. Young ladies like Evelina were expected to make their debut during this time, and it was a crucial opportunity for them to make advantageous connections and find suitable suitors.

Chapter 3:

In this chapter, Evelina is introduced to the Mirvans' friend, Lady Howard, who offers to introduce her to the Queen. This is a huge honor for Evelina, and she anxiously prepares for her visit to court. However, her excitement is short-lived as she is mocked and ridiculed by two young gentlemen, Lord Orville and Mr. Lovel, who are also attending the same event.

The real-life example that can be drawn from this chapter is the social pressures and expectations placed on young ladies during their debut season. Just like Evelina, they were expected to present themselves in the most elegant and proper manner, often being scrutinized and judged by their peers. This pressure, along with the fear of making a mistake or being mocked, is something many young debutantes would have experienced in their journey into society.

Chapter 4:

In this chapter, Evelina attends a concert where she is reunited with Mr. Lovel, who apologizes for his behavior at the Queen's court. She also meets Lord Orville again and finds him to be charming and kind. However, her enjoyment of the evening is cut short by the arrival of Captain Mirvan, the boisterous and rude stepfather of the Mirvan children, who causes a scene and embarrasses Evelina.

The real-life example that can be drawn from this chapter is the social gatherings and events that were an integral part of the London season. Concerts, balls, and parties were all opportunities for young ladies to mingle with potential suitors and showcase their accomplishments. However, they were also occasions where one's conduct and character were under constant scrutiny, as seen in the interactions between Evelina and the gentlemen she meets.

Chapter 5:

In this chapter, Evelina attends the theatre with the Mirvans and Mr. Lovel. However, she is shocked and disgusted by the indecency and vulgarity of the play, and the behavior of the audience. Mr. Lovel is also appalled and immediately takes Evelina out of the theatre. This incident highlights the clash between Evelina's genteel upbringing and the more loose and scandalous behavior of the London society.

The real-life example that can be drawn from this chapter is the contrasting lifestyles and values of the upper class and the lower class in 18th century London. While the upper class prided themselves on their refined manners and sophistication, the lower class often indulged in activities that were considered scandalous and uncouth. This disconnect between classes was a common theme in society, and it is shown through Evelina's reaction to the theatre.