After years of abuse, both physically and emotionally, Celie discovers herself searching for some self-respect. Fonso, Celie's abusive father, forces her to marry Albert, also abusive by nature. Celie finds a degree of hope through Albert's mistress, Shug. Shug serves as a tremendous force...

Few things attract more attention than controversy, and no other author knew this well than Thomas Hardy. During the late 19th, and early 20th centuries, Hardy's work shocked the public and threw the critics into an uproar. And yet, he managed to change the face of literature for the better. Hard...

This passage from Emma initiates the conclusion to the novel. As the conversation between Mr. Knightly and Emma unfolds both misinterpret the intentions of the other. Mr. Knightly believes that Emma grieves over the loss of Frank Churchill while Emma fears that Mr. Knightly intends to express his...