Agnes Grey by Anne Bronte
When we think of the literary accomplishments of the Brontes, often what comes immediately to mind are the masterpieces that are Emily’s Wuthering Heights and Charlotte’s Jane Eyre. However, it is an increasingly popular opinion, that Anne Bronte’s Agnes Grey has long been denied its rightful place among these literary titans. Agnes Grey gives a short but impactful insight into the life of a nineteenth century governess, one of the few professions available to educated young women of the time. From detailing the bitter homesickness brought on by having to leave family, friends, and community to start anew among strangers, to the trials and tribulations of trying to educate various children, each possessing their own unique personalities. Agnes Grey will not only have you anxiously turning pages with the suspense it successfully creates, but this book also has its fair share of comedic moments that those who work with children themselves may find especially amusing. Agnes Grey is semi-autobiographical, based upon its writers own time spent working as a governess. As a result, it will not only be of interest to those already intrigued by the wider Bronte family, but gives a rare glimpse into the life of one of its lesser known members.
Submitted by Alistair
