The 1935 novel by George Orwell revolves around a Clergyman’s daughter whose entire life is changed after suffering memory loss. This book explores the themes of human liberation from traditional life while simultaneously wrestling with the idea of faith. So, let’s look into the book more briefly and why ‘A Clergyman’s Daughter By George Orwell’ is one of the author’s most underrated works.
A Life Of Faith: A Clergyman’s Daughter By George Orwell
The clergyman’s daughter Dorothy Hare had a tough but regular life. She was 26 years old and was responsible for all the traditional church festivities. At this point in her life, she was a believer and professed faith. This made her very attractive to everyone, especially the gentlemen. But all this changed as one day she got lost in the city without any memory of her past.
Facing Hardships In A Ruthless World
After losing her memory, Dorothy had no idea about her past life. She was reborn into the world with no resources and benefits. She begged for almost everything and worked hard at a farm. It even got her into jail since begging was a crime in the city. This made her realise the predatory and harsh reality of life.
Finding Identity And Rejecting Past
After struggling for months, Dorothy finally got to know about her past. But it was too late as she was sure no one would accept her back in the town. The rumours of her elopement with Mr Warburton—a bachelor in his late 40s who wanted to marry Dorothy, were too much for her. So, she decided to stay in the city where some of her relatives arranged a job.
The Chains Of Earning Money
Dorothy began teaching at a small school where she oversaw over 20 girls. She was responsible for teaching everything. However, later, Dorothy realised that teaching was just a business, and her life became like a cage. She can’t even teach with any liberty and has to follow Mrs Creevy—the principal, who later fires Dorothy to save some money.
A Life Changing Offer
After losing her job, Dorothy was in shambles. However, she was saved by Mr Warburton. He wanted to marry her and even gave a reasonable account of his offer. But Dorothy refused and wanted to go back home. Her father was ready to welcome her. However, something changed; she confessed to Mr Warburton that she lost faith in the 8 months apart from the family.
Life Goes On With And Without Your Beliefs
Dorothy indulged in the same activities. However, she was not a believer. She did her jobs and tasks that she was supposed to do, making her a hypocrite, but that was her life. Dorothy managed to overcome many difficulties, and it changed, but her acts were the same, and that’s what she cared about.
Final Thoughts On A Clergyman’s Daughter By George Orwell
A Clergyman’s Daughter By George Orwell is a novel that explores the simple life of a young girl. She struggles after unfortunate events, but her life has returned to normal. However, how she felt about theology changed, but her acts and life remained unchanged.
and FAQs
Where is a clergyman’s daughter set?
The book is set in Hayes, Middlesex, and some stories occur in London.
What is the plot of the clergyman’s daughter?
Dorothy Hare loses her memory and wanders away from her home. She struggles to make a living, and during this harsh time, she loses her faith.
When was a clergyman’s daughter published?
11 March 1935.
